Terrifying scenes unfolded over Kyiv as bright streaks lit up the night sky before massive explosions rocked the Ukrainian capital in what Russian media and officials claimed was an Oreshnik hypersonic missile strike. The reported attack came days after Moscow accused Ukraine of carrying out a deadly drone strike on a school dormitory in the Lugansk People's Republic that allegedly killed 21 people, mostly children.
Putin Orders Retaliation
Russian President Vladimir Putin had earlier ordered the Defense Ministry to prepare a response to the alleged attack. Russian forces then launched a massive overnight barrage of missiles and drones on Kyiv, with reports of residential buildings, schools, and shelters being hit. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed at least one death and multiple injuries, while several civilians were reportedly trapped under debris.
Zelensky's Whereabouts
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was reportedly forced to take shelter in a bunker as the strikes intensified. The Oreshnik missile, a hypersonic weapon, is capable of evading air defense systems, causing widespread panic and destruction.
The attack marks a significant escalation in the conflict, with both sides trading blame for civilian casualties. International observers have called for restraint, but tensions remain high.
