Russia Deploys Rare Hypersonic Missile in Major Attack on Kyiv
Russia used a rare nuclear-capable hypersonic missile called Oreshnik in a major attack on Kyiv.
Summary
Russia launched one of its largest barrages of drones and missiles on Kyiv, resulting in at least four fatalities. During these extensive strikes, Moscow utilized a rare, nuclear-capable ballistic missile known as Oreshnik, which Russia claims is uninterceptable. This missile, developed based on a 2023 order by Putin and literally translating to "Hazelnut shrub," is described by the Kremlin as a "state-of-the-art" and virtually indestructible weapon capable of evading air defenses and striking targets across Europe at hypersonic speeds. The use of the Oreshnik missile has drawn criticism from French President Emmanuel Macron and EU officials.
Why it's important
The deployment of the Oreshnik, a nuclear-capable hypersonic ballistic missile, represents a significant escalation in Russia's military actions against Ukraine. Its claimed invincibility and ability to strike targets across Europe raise concerns about regional security and the effectiveness of existing air defense systems.
Key Points
- Russia deployed Oreshnik missile
- Nuclear-capable hypersonic ballistic missile
- Kyiv attacked with advanced weapon
- Oreshnik developed on Putin's order
- International criticism of missile use
Key Narratives
Based on positions and claims visible in the cited sources. Missing viewpoints are not inferred as full national or institutional perspectives.
Russia claims the Oreshnik is a powerful, virtually indestructible, state-of-the-art weapon that can evade air defenses and strike targets at hypersonic speeds.
French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed fierce criticism regarding Russia's use of the Oreshnik missile.
EU officials have joined in fierce criticism of Russia's use of the Oreshnik nuclear-capable weapon.
Involved Entities
Russia, Kyiv, Emmanuel Macron, EU officials
Sources (3)
What is Oreshnik? Russia deploys rare hypersonic missile in one of war's largest attacks on Kyiv
During the attacks, Moscow used a rare nuclear-capable ballistic missile – dubbed Oreshnik – which it has said cannot be intercepted. | World News
What Is Russia's 'Indestructible' Oreshnik Missile Used In Kyiv Strikes
Oreshnik, which literally translates to "Hazelnut shrub" in Russian, was developed on the basis of a 2023 order by Putin.
What is Russia’s Oreshnik missile?
Russia’s Oreshnik missile is a nuclear-capable intermediate-range ballistic missile that Moscow says can evade air defences and strike targets across Europe at hypersonic speeds.
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