At least 2 dead, 83 wounded after Russia uses nuclear-capable missile in massive attack on Ukraine
Updated on: May 24, 2026 / 8:22 PM EDT / CBS/AP
TL;DR
- Russia used a powerful Oreshnik hypersonic missile in an attack on Kyiv, killing at least two people and wounding 83.
- The Oreshnik missile has nuclear capabilities and has been used three times previously in the war.
- The aerial assault involved drones and missiles, causing damage to buildings across Kyiv, including residential areas, a market, and schools.
- Russia's Defense Ministry confirmed the use of the Oreshnik, stating it targeted Ukrainian military facilities in retaliation for attacks on Russian civilian sites.
- A separate drone strike in Starobilsk, eastern Ukraine, resulted in 21 deaths.
- The attack highlighted Ukraine's shortage of air defense missiles, particularly those capable of intercepting ballistic missiles like the Oreshnik.
- Kyiv is reliant on U.S. Patriot systems, but interceptor missiles are in critically short supply, prompting urgent requests to Western partners.
- Residents in Kyiv are considering relocation due to the ongoing destruction and danger.
- EU officials condemned the strikes and planned to discuss increasing international pressure on Russia.
- The Oreshnik missile is described by Putin as immune to missile defense systems and capable of destroying underground bunkers.