The Ukrainian army warned that Russia could launch a ballistic missile Oreșnik, urging civilians to take shelter during air raid alerts.

The Ukrainian army has issued a warning regarding a possible launch of a medium-range ballistic missile from the Kapustin Yar testing ground, located in the Astrakhan region of southern Russia. Military journalist Andriy Tsaplienko confirmed the conduct of Russian military exercises, which include launches of Oreshnik missiles.

Ukrainian authorities have emphasized the importance of adhering to air raid alarms, urging civilians to take shelter upon hearing the sirens. Although a similar alert was issued recently without any missiles being launched, the military insists that the threat is real.

The Oreshnik missiles, with an estimated range of 6000 km, can carry nuclear payloads and can reach Western Europe in a matter of minutes. Ukraine does not have interception capabilities for these missiles, which amplifies the risks to national security.