Russia has launched one of its most significant aerial assaults on Ukraine, targeting the capital city of Kyiv and its surrounding regions with a massive barrage of weaponry. According to the Ukrainian Air Force, the Russian military deployed a total of 90 missiles and 600 drones during the operation. A notable and alarming aspect of this attack was the use of the Oreshnik hypersonic missile, a weapon considered extremely dangerous due to its advanced capabilities. This missile is specifically designed to be capable of carrying nuclear warheads, adding a grave dimension to the ongoing conflict.
Casualties and Infrastructure Damage
The impact of the strikes has been devastating for the civilian population. Ukrainian officials have confirmed that at least 4 people lost their lives in the attack, while more than 80 individuals sustained various injuries. The physical destruction is widespread, with numerous residential houses, schools, shops, and other commercial buildings either being completely destroyed or catching fire due to the explosions. Emergency services have been working tirelessly to manage the aftermath of the strikes.
Vitali Klitschko, the Mayor of Kyiv, described the situation as a terrifying night for the city's residents. He noted that explosions echoed throughout the night, keeping the population in a state of constant fear. Rescue teams have been deployed across the capital to extinguish fires and clear debris from the streets and damaged structures. The injured have been rushed to nearby hospitals for urgent medical treatment.
Targeting Strategic Locations
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy provided further details on the geographical scope of the attack. He stated that Russia also targeted the city of Bila Tserkva, which is located approximately 64 kilometers away from Kyiv. Zelenskyy highlighted a concerning pattern in the Russian strategy, alleging that the strikes specifically aimed at water supply infrastructure. He accused Russia of attempting to sabotage the water systems ahead of the summer season, while in light of these developments, the President issued a plea to the United States and European nations to take more stringent measures against Russian aggression.
Russia's Justification and Weaponry
From the Russian perspective, the Kremlin has characterized this massive operation as a retaliatory strike. Russian officials claim that the attack was a response to previous Ukrainian strikes on Russian territory, while according to the Russian military, the primary targets were Ukrainian military installations, airbases, and centers associated with the armed forces. Russia confirmed the use of a sophisticated arsenal, including the Oreshnik, Iskander, Kinzhal, and Zircon missiles, showcasing its high-tech military capabilities.
The Significance of the Oreshnik Missile
This marks the third time Russia has utilized the Oreshnik missile against Ukraine since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022. Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously asserted that the Oreshnik is nearly impossible to intercept because it travels at speeds exceeding 10 times the speed of sound. The missile possesses a range of several thousand kilometers and is capable of delivering nuclear payloads, making it a formidable tool in Russia's military strategy.
During the height of the attack, residents of Kyiv sought refuge in the city's metro stations, which served as makeshift bomb shelters. Many people remained underground for several hours as the sounds of explosions reverberated above. One woman recounted the fear felt by those hiding, stating that the continuous blasts created an atmosphere of intense dread. As morning broke, thick smoke was visible over various parts of the city. Many buildings suffered broken windows, and sections of some houses collapsed entirely. Fire brigades and rescue teams continued their relief efforts well into the day.