Ukraine warns of possible Russian 'Oreshnik' missile launch within 24 hours

Ukraine's Air Force warned on social media on Thursday of a potential Russian attack using the 'Oreshnik' missile within the next 24 hours. The missile could be launched from the Kapustin Yar test site in the Astrakhan region.

Since 2024, Russia has used this missile three times against Ukraine. Although the 'Oreshnik' is capable of carrying nuclear weapons, it has not been equipped with them in previous attacks. The missile has a range of up to 6,000 kilometers and can reach targets in Western Europe within minutes at hypersonic speed.

Shortly before midnight on Thursday, Ukraine's armed forces declared a nationwide ballistic missile alert that lasted just under 14 minutes. However, no missile launch occurred.

Ukrainian officials emphasize that the country still has no defense system capable of intercepting the 'Oreshnik' missile, making it a particularly dangerous threat.