Lviv: Russia has launched an advanced oreshnik missile at western parts of Ukraine, including areas near the city of Lviv, in an overnight attack that Ukrainian officials say threatens the security of Europe.
The missile strike was part of a larger assault involving drones and other missiles that also hit the capital, Kyiv. Ukrainian authorities said the attacks damaged energy and civilian infrastructure, causing power and heating outages in several neighbourhoods during freezing winter conditions.
At least four people were killed and more than 20 were injured in Kyiv during the wider barrage, according to local officials. In the Lviv region, which lies close to the borders of European Union and NATO member states, infrastructure facilities were damaged, but no immediate civilian deaths were reported.
Russia later confirmed that it had used the oreshnik missile, describing it as a new and highly advanced weapon. Moscow said the strike targeted military and energy facilities and claimed it was carried out in response to alleged Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory. Ukrainian officials rejected these claims, saying the assault mainly affected civilian areas.
Ukraine’s foreign ministry warned that the use of such a powerful missile near Europe’s borders marked a dangerous escalation in the war. Officials said the attack showed that Russia was willing to raise the stakes and intimidate not only Ukraine but also neighbouring countries.
Military experts say the oreshnik missile travels at extremely high speed, making it difficult to intercept with existing air defence systems. The missile is believed to be capable of carrying nuclear warheads, although there is no indication that a nuclear payload was used in this strike.
European leaders strongly condemned the attack and renewed calls for increased military and air defence support for Ukraine. Kyiv has also urged urgent discussions at international forums, including the United Nations, warning that continued escalation could have serious consequences beyond Ukraine.
As the conflict continues, residents in Kyiv and Lviv remain on alert, with air raid warnings still frequent. The latest attack has intensified fears that the war involving Russia and Ukraine could further destabilise the wider region.