Russia fired a powerful Oreshnik hypersonic missile overnight at a target in Ukraine near the border with NATO-member Poland. Kyiv and its European allies described the attack as an attempt to intimidate Ukraine’s supporters.
Moscow said the missile launch was in response to a reported drone attack on President Vladimir Putin’s residence last month. Ukraine denied the attack occurred, and the United States confirmed it did not happen.
The strike was part of a night of attacks that also killed four people in Kyiv, damaged infrastructure, and temporarily knocked out power in the capital. The Qatari embassy in Kyiv was reportedly damaged, though no injuries were reported there.
Oreshnik Missile Details
The Oreshnik is an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) designed to project power across Europe. It can carry nuclear warheads, although Ukrainian officials said the missile appeared to carry inert “dummy” warheads. The missile reached speeds of 13,000 km per hour and struck a workshop in Lviv, causing minor structural damage.
International Reactions
Ukraine called the strike a threat to European security. Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha said Russia’s use of the missile is a test for NATO and the transatlantic community.
The EU condemned the attack as a “clear escalation,” warning Moscow against threatening Ukraine’s allies. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas urged member states to strengthen air defenses and increase pressure on Russia through sanctions. Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that such attacks are meant to instill fear but will not succeed.
Casualties and Damage
Ukraine reported that a total of 242 drones and 36 missiles, including the Oreshnik, targeted Kyiv and Lviv. Four people were killed, including an emergency medic responding to a previous strike. More than 20 others were injured, and over half a million homes lost electricity. Water and heating were also disrupted during freezing temperatures.
In other related news also read Russia Launches Three Satellites for Iran Successfully
The missile strike comes amid ongoing peace talks in Paris, where Ukraine, the US, and European allies are negotiating a framework to resolve remaining issues with Russia.
