Russia launched a massive overnight assault on Ukraine on January 9, 2026, deploying hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles, including—for only the second time—the advanced hypersonic Oreshnik missile, according to Ukrainian officials and Russian military statements. The barrage killed at least four people and injured 25 others in the capital, Kyiv, with widespread damage reported across multiple regions.
The Oreshnik, a hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile, travels at speeds of approximately 13,000 kilometers per hour—roughly 10 times the speed of sound (Mach 10). Russian missile forces chief Colonel General Sergei Karakayev stated that this extreme velocity allows the weapon to reach targets across all of Europe in minutes, rendering traditional air defense systems largely ineffective due to its speed and unpredictable trajectory.
The attack was described by the Russian Defence Ministry as a retaliatory strike in response to Ukraine's alleged recent attack on Russian President Vladimir Putin's residence. Kyiv has categorically denied carrying out any such strike, while U.S. President Donald Trump publicly stated that no such incident occurred. The conflicting claims have further escalated tensions amid the ongoing war.
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Ukrainian air defense units worked through the night to intercept incoming threats, but several missiles and drones penetrated defenses, causing explosions in residential and infrastructure areas of Kyiv. Emergency services continue to respond to the aftermath, with rescue operations ongoing in affected districts. Power outages and disruptions to essential services have been reported in several parts of the city.
The use of the Oreshnik marks a significant escalation in Russia's missile campaign, highlighting the deployment of advanced hypersonic technology that has been under development for years. Western analysts have expressed concern over the weapon's ability to evade detection and interception, potentially shifting the strategic balance in the conflict.
The latest strikes come amid continued diplomatic efforts and international pressure for a ceasefire, with both sides accusing the other of prolonging the war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to address the nation later today, while global leaders have condemned the attack and called for restraint to prevent further civilian casualties. The situation remains fluid as more details emerge from the ground.
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