The Russian Ministry of Defence announced a massive combined attack on Ukraine with Oreshnik, Kinzhal, Zircon and Iskander missiles. Moscow called the attack a «retaliatory strike» after previous attacks on Russian and occupied territories.
Russia announces a «retaliatory strike»
The Russian Ministry of Defence has announced a large-scale combined attack on the territory of Ukraine using various types of missiles and drones. In the Russian media the attack was called a «retaliatory strike».
According to the Russian newspaper Vedomosti, the attack used «Oreshnik», «Kinzhal», «Zirkon», «Iskander», as well as attack drones. The Russian Federation claims that the targets were allegedly military command and control facilities, air bases and defence industry enterprises in Ukraine.
What we know about Oreshnik«
The Russian side paid special attention to use of the missile «Oreshnik, which is positioned as an element of a new missile deterrent. Earlier, the Ukrainian Air Force warned of the threat of using this medium-range ballistic missile during air alerts across the country.
According to open sources, the Oreshnik can reach hypersonic speeds and be equipped with multiple warheads. Some experts suggest that the missile is based on a new generation of Russian intercontinental or medium-range systems.
A large-scale attack on Ukraine
Against the backdrop of Russian statements, Ukraine reported massive strikes in Kyiv and other regions. In the capital, numerous destruction of residential buildings, fires and damage to civilian infrastructure. The Ukrainian side emphasises that residential areas and civilian objects were hit.
Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that he had instructed the military to prepare a «response» after the events in Starobilsk.
Why it matters
Russia's statements about the use of Oreshnik and other missiles during the massive attack indicate further escalation of the war and attempts at psychological pressure. The use of medium-range missiles and hypersonic systems poses additional challenges to air defence systems and civilian security. At the same time, massive attacks on cities and civilian infrastructure are exacerbating the humanitarian consequences of the war for Ukraine.
