Russia Intensifies Kyiv Assault with Missile and Drone Strikes

Russia launched a powerful missile and drone attack on Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital, early Sunday. The assault caused explosions that shook buildings for hours and started multiple fires across the city.

The attacks damaged two entrances to the subway system. The subway serves as a refuge for thousands of people during air raids. This included a strike near Kyiv’s Independence Square, known as the Maidan, a symbol of resistance against Russia.

President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine had previously alerted that Russia might launch the Oreshnik missile. This intermediate-range ballistic missile is designed to carry nuclear warheads. Russia had launched these missiles at Ukraine twice before, replacing warheads with dummy devices. These past incidents were interpreted as intimidation efforts aimed at Ukraine and its Western allies rather than causing extensive destruction.

The Oreshnik missile acts primarily as a political signal rather than a military weapon. It is unclear if this missile was used in the latest attack. The Oreshnik releases multiple warheads mid-flight. These warheads descend quickly on steep paths, which Patriot air defense systems are unable to intercept.

Reports from Bila Tserkva, located 50 miles south of Kyiv, mentioned that the swift movement of warheads landed there. This indicated the possible use of the Oreshnik missile.