Russia launched a massive offensive against Ukraine using its nuclear-capable Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile, prompting swift condemnation from European leaders concerned about the escalation's implications for continental security. The attack, which occurred overnight into Sunday, involved 90 missiles and cruise missiles along with approximately 600 drones, according to the Ukrainian Air Force.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz characterized the assault as a "reckless escalation" while reaffirming Germany's commitment to supporting Ukraine. The strike damaged numerous sites, including the centrally located studio of German public broadcaster ARD, which was heavily damaged and partially destroyed by what the broadcaster described as a massive blast wave that shattered windows and devastated parts of the facility. No employees were inside the building at the time.
Strategic Weapons Deployment Raises Alarm
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed on Sunday that Russia had again deployed its Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile, this time targeting the Kyiv region. The Russian Defence Ministry later acknowledged the launch, claiming it came as retaliation for Ukrainian strikes against "civilian targets," allegations that Kyiv has denied.
According to Moscow, the Oreshnik missile is capable of striking targets between 3,000 and 5,500 kilometres away, placing large parts of Europe within range. Russian military officials have emphasized this capability, while Russian President Vladimir Putin has described the ballistic missile as "state-of-the-art." The weapon system's first known use came in the second year during an attack on the Ukrainian city of Dnipro.
European Response and Security Concerns
French President Emmanuel Macron said civilian targets in Ukraine had once again come under attack and described the reported use of the nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile as a sign of both the deadlock in Russia's war effort and a dangerous escalation of the conflict. Macron stated that France would continue supporting Ukraine and efforts towards a just and lasting peace.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the massive Russian assault demonstrated "the Kremlin's brutality and disregard for both human life and peace negotiations." She characterized terror against civilians as "not strength" but "desperation" and pledged that the European Union would continue supporting Ukraine, particularly by strengthening its air defence systems.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas described the attacks as "abhorrent acts of terror" against the Ukrainian civilian population. She said Russia had reached a military dead end and was therefore deliberately targeting city centres. Kallas called the reported use of the Oreshnik missile particularly alarming, describing it as "reckless nuclear brinkmanship."
Next Steps
EU foreign ministers are expected to discuss further pressure on Russia next week. Belarus is also believed to possess the missile system, adding another dimension to European security calculations. Although Ukrainian air defenses intercepted many of the targets during the overnight assault, dozens of hits were still reported across the country.
Why This Matters:
The deployment of nuclear-capable intermediate-range missiles represents a significant escalation with direct implications for European security and the stability of the continent. Russia's demonstrated capability to strike targets across large parts of Europe with advanced weapons systems underscores the need for robust defense investments and credible deterrence. The attack's targeting of civilian infrastructure, including a German media facility, illustrates the broader threat to Western institutions and the rule-based international order. As EU ministers prepare to discuss additional measures, the incident reinforces the argument that European nations must maintain strong defense capabilities and resolve in supporting Ukraine's sovereignty while managing the risks of further escalation that could directly threaten NATO territory and populations.