On Sunday, May 24th, an Oreshnik ballistic missile was used during a drone and missile attack in Kyiv. This marks the third time this weapon has been used during the Russo-Ukrainian war. According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, four people were killed by the strike. At least 83 were wounded, and many government and residential buildings were destroyed.  

The strike focused on attacking the Ukrainian capital. It utilized 600 strike drones, and 90 air, sea, and ground-launched missiles (A.P. News). Ukrainian authorities also say schools and a market were badly hit. Russia believed the strikes were justified. According to B.B.C. News, the Russian defense ministry claimed these strikes were a response to Ukraine’s attack on civilian infrastructure. However, the Ukrainian military denies their intention to target any Russian civilians, claiming their focus was on military facilities. 

The Russo-Ukrainian War has been an ongoing four-year conflict, and it is particularly challenging to find any form of middle ground to end the war. During the conflict, there have only been a few strikes; however, if we cannot end the use of these weapons, it’ll be even trickier to find peace. Both countries have carried out strikes against one another. Ukraine attacked Starobilsk, Russia, but maintains that they only hit a Russian drone unit. Not only are both countries pursuing military action, but the conflict has spread beyond military facilities and bases.  

European leaders condemned the attack on Ukraine, especially considering the strength of the missile used. The Oreshnik missile travels at more than ten times the speed of sound, and is hard to block. Multiple neighborhoods and collectives throughout Kyiv experienced heavy damage due to the strikes. Art museums and halls in the center of Kyiv were also badly damaged. President Zelenskyy believes such rich locations being hit is a sign of Russia wanting to damage and tarnish Ukrainian culture. 

It is unclear what the exact next steps are for both Russia and Ukraine. Their intense four-year conflict has left a sense of uncertainty around the globe, especially considering the land and economics that drive their military forces.