Russia confirms use of ‘Oreshnik’ ballistic missile in mass strike on Ukraine

LVIV – Russia’s Defense Ministry has confirmed the use of the medium-range ballistic missile system “Oreshnik” (Hazel) during a large-scale aerial strike on Ukraine. 

In a statement published on the ministry’s Telegram channel, Russia claimed the attack was carried out “in response” to an alleged Ukrainian drone strike on one of the residences of Kremlin ruler Vladimir Putin in the Novgorod region, an erroneous claim that has since been widely debunked, including by U.S. President Donald Trump. 

Russia said on Jan. 9 that a “massive strike using high-precision long-range weapons” was launched, involving land- and sea-based missiles, the “Oreshnik” system, and strike drones. 

Following the air raid alert, explosions were reported in Lviv near the Polish border, where a critical infrastructure facility was hit. Ukrainian officials reported that the ballistic missile involved was travelling at a speed of approximately 13,000 kilometers (8,000 miles) per hour.

On the same night, Russia also carried out a large-scale attack on Kyiv. Hundreds of strike drones, Kalibr cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles launched from Russia’s Bryansk region targeted the capital.

At least four civilians were killed 25 others injured as of the morning, according to Ukraine’s Ministry of Internal Affairs.

During a secondary, so-called double-tap strike, a 56-year-old medic who had arrived to provide emergency assistance was killed, while several other emergency responders were injured. Around 40 sites were damaged, including residential buildings and diplomatic facilities. 

Ukraine’s president also reported damage to the Embassy of Qatar.

The attacks caused extensive destruction to Kyiv’s infrastructure. Large parts of the city were left without electricity, water, and heating, and the underground section of the metro system was temporarily suspended.

Approximately half of Kyiv’s apartment buildings — around 6,000 in total — remain without heating. Municipal authorities have urged residents who are able to temporarily leave the capital until the situation stabilizes.