Early Sunday morning, Russia launched a significant missile and drone assault on Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital. Explosions echoed for hours, causing multiple fires throughout the city.

The attack affected two entrances to the subway system, a vital underground refuge used by thousands during air attacks. One strike occurred near Kyiv’s central Independence Square, a symbol of Ukraine’s resistance against Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had cautioned about the potential use of Russia’s Oreshnik missile. This intermediate-range ballistic missile is designed to carry nuclear warheads. Russia previously used these missiles twice in Ukraine, once in 2024 and again in January, but with dummy warheads instead of explosives.

Those past incidents were perceived as attempts to intimidate Ukraine or its Western allies rather than cause significant destruction. The Oreshnik missile acts more as a political tactic than a practical weapon, intended to demonstrate power.

As of early Sunday, it was uncertain if the Oreshnik had been fired in this attack. The missile can release multiple warheads during flight, moving rapidly on steep paths, making them difficult for American Patriot air defense systems to intercept. Reports from Bila Tserkva, a town about 50 miles south of Kyiv, indicated a rapid barrage of warheads had landed there.