Zelenskyy warns of likely Russian Oreshnik missile strike, particularly targeting Kyiv

What happened

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reported, based on intelligence received from Kyiv’s US and European partners, that Russia is likely preparing a missile strike on Ukraine using the Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile. Zelenskyy stated that Ukrainian intelligence is currently verifying the information and noted signs of preparations for a combined strike involving various weapon systems, including a possible strike targeting Kyiv.

Outside Brief is treating this as a source-led account. Any disputed responsibility, casualty figure or battlefield claim should be read as unconfirmed/hearsay unless confirmed by another reliable source. Zelenskyy urged the public to respond carefully to air-raid warnings starting from the evening of May 23, stressing the importance of using shelters to protect lives amid what he described as Russian ‘‘madness.’’ He emphasized that Ukraine is preparing its air defense system as extensively as possible and vowed to respond justly and decisively to any Russian attacks.

The Ukrainian president also addressed international partners, warning that allowing Russia to employ such weapons and prolong the conflict would set a dangerous global precedent. He highlighted concerns that this could embolden other regimes driven by aggression and hatred to conduct similar strikes in the future if Moscow is not pressured preventively, rather than in a post-factum manner.

Known from the source

• Zelenskyy cited intelligence from US and European partners indicating a likely Russian strike involving the Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile.
• Zelenskyy said Ukrainian intelligence services are verifying this information.
• Zelenskyy urged the public to use shelters beginning the evening of May 23 in response to air-raid warnings.
• Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine is preparing its air defense and will respond to Russian strikes.
• Zelenskyy warned that the use of such weapons could set a global precedent and called for preventive international pressure on Moscow.

What remains unclear

Zelenskyy contrasted Ukraine’s permission for national celebrations such as the upcoming parade with Russia’s ‘‘madness’’ in expanding the war through such missile strikes. He concluded by thanking those involved in protecting civilian lives and reiterated the urgent call for people to use shelters in anticipation of possible attacks.

What remains unclear: Verification that the intelligence on an imminent Oreshnik missile strike is confirmed beyond Ukrainian presidential claims. Independent confirmations of any missile launch or attack preparation by Russia involving Oreshnik missiles. Official announcements or alerts from Ukrainian defense or civil protection authorities regarding the strike threat or activation of shelters. Ensure correct attribution for all claims relating to intelligence and strike preparations.

Evidence note

Outside Brief has kept this brief source-led and attributed. Claims should be read alongside the original source linked below.

Original source: Ukrainska Pravda English. Open the source.