Story perspectives

Russia urges foreigners out, launches hypersonic strike on Kyiv

5/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

Russia warned foreign nationals and diplomats to leave Kyiv as it prepared new strikes.
The Russian foreign ministry said missiles and drones would hit Kyiv’s decision-making centres, killing four and wounding dozens.
Ukraine’s foreign minister Andrii Sybiha and EU officials rejected the evacuation demand.
Russia used the Oreshnik hypersonic missile, damaging the Chernobyl Museum and National Art Museum.
Ukraine reported retaliatory strikes that killed civilians in Belgorod, Donetsk and Kherson.

History

Historical Context

From NATO’s 78-day air campaign against Yugoslavia (24 March-10 June 1999) that flew 38,000 combat missions and forced Miloševic to pull troops from Kosovo, Russia now threatens Kyiv’s diplomats and has used an Oreshnik hypersonic missile on Kyiv museums. The parallel use of coercive air power revives concerns over civilian fear and sanctions.

1 of 2

Story summary

Russia warned foreign nationals and diplomats to leave Kyiv as it prepared new strikes.
The Russian foreign ministry said missiles and drones would hit Kyiv’s decision-making centres, killing four and wounding dozens.
Ukraine’s foreign minister Andrii Sybiha and EU officials rejected the evacuation demand.
Russia used the Oreshnik hypersonic missile, damaging the Chernobyl Museum and National Art Museum.
Ukraine reported retaliatory strikes that killed civilians in Belgorod, Donetsk and Kherson.

1 / 2