Russia gets ready to strike Ukraine with Oreshnik, Zelenskyy says
Volodymyr Zelenskyy (photo: Getty Images)
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that, according to US and European partners, Russia is readying a strike against Ukraine using the Oreshnik system. Kyiv is currently verifying this information.
"There was a briefing from our intelligence: we received data, including from American and European partners, about Russians preparing a strike using Oreshnik. We are verifying this information," President Zelenskyy said.
He noted that Ukrainian intelligence sees signs of preparations for a combined strike on Ukraine, including on Kyiv, using various types of weapons. In this context, the president urged Ukrainians to respond to air raid alerts.
"This medium-range weapon may be part of such a strike. It is important to respond consciously to air raid alerts starting this evening. Russian madness is truly boundless, so please take care of your lives — use shelters," the head of state wrote.
Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine draws the attention of partners in both the United States and Europe to the fact that the use of such weapons and the prolonging of the war are a global warning sign, including for other potential aggressors. Kyiv, therefore, expects a preventive response from the international community.
"If Russia is allowed to destroy lives on such a scale, then no agreement will stop other similar regimes based on hatred from carrying out aggression and strikes. We are counting on a response from the world, and that it will be preventive, not post factum. Pressure must be put on Moscow, so it does not expand the war," the Ukrainian leader emphasized.
He added that Ukraine is strengthening its air defense as much as possible and will respond justly to every Russian strike.
In conclusion, Zelenskyy said the war must end.
"We gave permission for a parade, but there is no permission for madness in Russia. This war must be ended — we need peace, not missiles for the satisfaction of one person's sick ambitions," he said.
Other details available
Earlier, at the end of 2025, the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine stated that Russia plans serial production and modernization of the Oreshnik ballistic missile system, aimed at increasing strike capability with nuclear warhead options.
Notably, a week ago, Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin again returned to nuclear rhetoric and announced the strengthening of Russia's strategic forces. During a meeting with military officials, he specifically mentioned the Oreshnik missile system and its potential to be equipped with nuclear warheads.
