Russia Threatens Kyiv With New Attacks, Deploys Hypersonic Missile May 27

Russia threatened fresh attacks on Ukraine’s capital Kyiv on May 25, one day after launching its largest air assault of the war. The strikes killed 4 people and injured about 100. Russia deployed the Oreshnik hypersonic missile, which travels at Mach 11 and can carry nuclear warheads. Russia called on foreign diplomats to evacuate, but Western nations refused.

What Russia Attacked and Why

On May 24, Russia launched dozens of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and hundreds of drones at Kyiv. The assault included the Oreshnik hypersonic missile, fired at targets 90 kilometers south of the capital. Russia said it was retaliating for Ukraine’s May 22 attack on a Russian-occupied dormitory in Lugansk, which Russia claims killed 21 people. Ukraine said it targeted a Russian drone unit, not civilians.

The Oreshnik Missile and Its Capabilities

The Oreshnik is a medium-range ballistic missile with a range of 3,000 to 5,500 kilometers, putting all of Europe within reach. It travels at Mach 11, roughly 13,580 kilometers per hour. The missile uses MIRV technology, meaning one launch can deploy 6 main warheads, each carrying 6 sub-warheads, for up to 36 separate strikes. Military experts say it is nearly impossible to intercept. Russia claims the missile can destroy bunkers buried 3 to 4 levels underground.

Western Diplomats Reject Evacuation Orders

Russia’s Foreign Ministry warned foreign diplomats and international staff to leave Kyiv immediately. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on May 25 to evacuate American diplomats. However, Western nations refused. France’s Foreign Ministry said it is used to Putin’s threats and will not leave. The EU ambassador to Kyiv posted on Facebook: “We are not going anywhere.”

Ukraine’s Defense Struggles

Ukraine intercepted 11 of the 90 missiles fired on May 24, stopping 37 percent of all weapons deployed. This was far below the 67 percent interception rate achieved on May 14. Ukraine’s air force said there were too many missiles to defend against. The capital’s defense relies on U.S.-made Patriot air defense systems, but ammunition supplies are running low due to competing demands in the Middle East.

Final Thoughts

Russia’s escalating missile attacks and deployment of the Oreshnik signal Moscow intends to maintain pressure on Ukraine despite battlefield stalemate. With Western nations refusing to evacuate and Ukraine’s air defenses stretched thin, the conflict shows no signs of de-escalation.

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