President Volodymyr Zelensky has strongly condemned Russia’s recent missile and drone attacks on Ukraine, which included the use of the Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile. The strike, which targeted Lviv, occurred on January 9 and resulted in widespread power outages amid freezing temperatures.
The attack on Lviv, located approximately 60 kilometers (40 miles) from the Polish border, marked the first instance of the city being targeted by a ballistic missile, according to Lviv Mayor Andrii Sadovyi. Lviv Oblast Governor Maksym Kozytskyi confirmed that a critical infrastructure facility was hit during the assault.
Oreshnik Missile Deployment and International Reactions
The deployment of the nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile, although not armed with atomic warheads in this instance, has raised significant international concern. Both President Zelensky and Russia’s Defense Ministry have confirmed its use in the attack. Zelensky emphasized the need for a global response, stating on X, “Russia must receive signals that it is its obligation to focus on diplomacy, and must feel consequences every time it again focuses on killings and the destruction of infrastructure.”
In his evening address, Zelensky highlighted the threat posed to Europe, noting the missile’s proximity to the European Union’s borders. “This poses the same challenge for all: Warsaw, Bucharest, Budapest, and for many other capitals as well,” he said, calling for a “system of collective defense” against Moscow’s aggression.
Impact on Kyiv and Broader Ukrainian Infrastructure
Meanwhile, Russian forces launched a heavy strike on Kyiv, resulting in the deaths of at least four people and leaving hundreds of thousands without electricity and heat. Among the casualties was a paramedic, with 25 others injured, including five medical workers, according to Ukraine’s State Emergency Service.
President Zelensky reported damage to 20 residential buildings and the Qatari Embassy in the capital. The DTEK energy company stated that 417,000 households were disconnected from electricity due to the attack.
Overall, Russian forces deployed 242 attack and decoy drones, 13 Iskander or S-400 ballistic missiles, 22 cruise missiles, and the Oreshnik missile, according to Ukraine. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted 226 drones and 18 missiles, the Air Force reported.
Historical Context and Future Implications
This marks the second time Russia has used the Oreshnik missile in strikes against Ukraine, with its initial deployment occurring on November 21, 2024, against Dnipro. The continued use of such advanced weaponry underscores the escalating nature of the conflict and the potential for further destabilization in the region.
According to military analysts, the deployment of the Oreshnik missile represents a significant escalation in Russia’s military tactics, potentially signaling a shift in strategy. Experts warn that the use of intermediate-range ballistic missiles could provoke a stronger response from NATO and other international actors.
President Zelensky has vowed to engage with international partners to discuss the latest attack and determine the necessary response from Ukraine and its allies. “Does such a system exist now? That’s an open question, because across Europe there is the same doubt — whether their capital would be defended if Putin suddenly lost it,” Zelensky remarked, highlighting the uncertainty facing European nations.
As the conflict continues to unfold, the international community remains vigilant, with many calling for a unified response to deter further aggression and protect regional stability.
