Ukraine Confirms Russian Oreshnik Missile Fragments From Lviv Strike

The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has identified the location of fragments from a Russian ballistic missile that struck the Lviv region overnight on January 8–9. Preliminary analysis indicates that the components belong to the medium-range “Oreshnik” missile system, according to a statement released by SBU on January 9.

Among the recovered parts are:

• The stabilization and guidance unit—effectively the missile’s “brains”;

• Components from the engine assembly;

• Fragments of the orientation mechanism;

• Nozzles from the separation block platform, among others.

These fragments have been classified as evidence and are being prepared for further in-depth examination. Investigators are treating the use of this weapon against civilian infrastructure in Ukraine as a war crime committed by Russia.

According to preliminary findings, the “Oreshnik” missile was launched from Russia’s Kapustin Yar test range.

“By targeting civilian facilities near the border with the European Union, the Kremlin sought to destroy vital regional infrastructure amid sharply worsening weather conditions,” SBU wrote.

The SBU continues to investigate all circumstances surrounding the attack, including the organizers and executors of this war crime, with the aim of bringing them to justice. The pre-trial investigation under Article 438 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (war crimes) is ongoing and is being conducted under the procedural guidance of the Office of the Prosecutor General.

The medium-range ballistic missile “Oreshnik” was among the weapons used in Russia’s large-scale attack on Kyiv overnight on January 9, which killed at least four people and injured nearly two dozen others.

The assault also involved 36 missiles and 242 unmanned aerial vehicles of various types.

Previously, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha condemned Russia’s latest combined missile and drone assault on Ukrainian cities and critical infrastructure, warning that the strikes represent not only terror against civilians but a direct security challenge to Europe and NATO.

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