Oreshnik Missile Escalates Russia-Ukraine Conflict

The Russia-Ukraine war witnessed a sharp escalation after Moscow confirmed the use of its advanced Oreshnik ballistic missile in an overnight strike on Ukraine. The attack, carried out just weeks before the conflict approaches its fourth anniversary, has raised serious concerns about European security and the evolving nature of Russia’s military posture.

Russia’s Latest Strike on Ukraine

On January 9, Russia announced that it had deployed the Oreshnik missile as part of a large-scale overnight assault targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure and drone manufacturing facilities. Ukrainian authorities reported multiple casualties in Kyiv, with damage to critical infrastructure. The strike followed Moscow’s claim of a Ukrainian drone attack on the residence of Russian President Vladimir Putin, an allegation rejected by Kyiv and the United States.

What Is the Oreshnik Missile?

Oreshnik, meaning “hazel nut” in Russian, is described by Moscow as a nuclear-capable intermediate-range ballistic missile. According to Russian statements, it can reach speeds of up to Mach 10 and is extremely difficult to intercept using existing air defence systems. The missile is reportedly a variant of the RS-26, itself derived from the RS-24 Yars intercontinental ballistic missile, and is believed to support multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles.

Strategic and Military Implications

Ukrainian officials, including Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, warned that the deployment of such a missile near European borders poses a grave threat to regional and transatlantic security. Russia had previously used the Oreshnik in November 2024, though Ukrainian sources claimed it carried dummy warheads at the time. Defence experts note that the missile’s ability to deliver multiple warheads places it closer to strategic weapons typically associated with longer-range systems.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Oreshnik is an intermediate-range ballistic missile reportedly capable of Mach 10 speeds.
• IRBMs generally have a range between 500 and 5,500 kilometres.
• MIRV technology allows one missile to hit multiple targets simultaneously.
• The Russia-Ukraine war began with Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Global Reactions and the Road Ahead

The timing of the strike is significant as US President Donald Trump seeks to broker a peace deal between Moscow and Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Russia launched 13 ballistic missiles, including Oreshnik, along with cruise missiles and hundreds of drones. Ukrainian leaders have urged the international community, particularly the United States, to respond firmly, warning that continued inaction could embolden further escalation.