The European Union’s Foreign Policy Chief, Kaja Kallas, has condemned Russia’s recent use of the “Oreshnik” ballistic missile, announcing plans for heightened international pressure on Moscow in response to escalating military actions.
In a statement shared on social media platform X, Kallas remarked that Russia finds itself cornered on the battlefield, leading to an uptick in terror tactics against Ukraine, including strikes on civilian infrastructure and urban centers.
She characterized these assaults as deliberate acts of terrorism aimed at inflicting maximum harm on the civilian population and instilling fear among Ukrainians.
Kallas specifically addressed the deployment of the medium-range “Oreshnik” missile, labeling it a tool of political intimidation and a reckless escalation that could pose a nuclear threat.
Next week, EU foreign ministers are set to convene to discuss further measures to intensify pressure on Russia, which may include new sanctions and diplomatic initiatives.
On May 23, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that intelligence from American and European partners indicated Russia was preparing to launch an attack using the “Oreshnik” missile.
The U.S. Embassy in Ukraine also warned of a “potentially significant airstrike” that could occur within the next 24 hours.
In the early hours of May 24, Russian forces conducted a large-scale assault on Kyiv using drones and missiles. Zelensky noted that a variety of missile types and drones were deployed, targeting civilian sites.
Additionally, the enemy was reported to have used strike capabilities in other regions, including the confirmed use of the “Oreshnik” missile towards Bila Tserkva.
According to the Ukrainian Air Force, a total of 690 aerial attack assets were detected overnight, comprising 90 missiles and 600 drones of various types.
Kaja Kallas has condemned Russia's missile attacks on Ukraine, indicating that the EU will enhance its response through potential sanctions and diplomatic measures. The situation escalated with recent intelligence warnings and a large-scale assault on Kyiv.