Russia used its latest “Zircon” missiles for Kyiv attack

Russia launched strikes on Kyiv on the morning of March 25 using two of its latest ZM22 "Zircon" missiles. 

Rubryka reports, citing the Ukrainian publication Defense Express, that this is the second publicly known use of this missile. The Russians likely targeted the capital with the "Zircon" on February 7, with debris from the missile possibly falling in the Desnianskyi district. However, the quantity of debris was insufficient, and identification took about five days.

"This time, specialists managed to gather more detailed debris and conduct a deeper analysis. Specifically, they were able to determine the type of engine, guidance system, and materials used," Defense Express noted.

According to the publication, specialists collected a significant amount of information, allowing for an assessment of the real capabilities of the "Zircon" missile and the level of technology currently available to Russia for its development.

What we know about the use of the "Zircon" missile

On February 7, Russian occupation forces launched cruise missiles of various types and strike drones against Ukraine. The attacks were recorded in the capital, Kharkiv, and Mykolaiv. During the Russian missile attack on Ukraine, about 20 missiles were downed near and over Kyiv.

Later, it became known that Russia could possibly use the "Zircon" missile. Subsequently, experts from the Kyiv Research Institute of Forensic Expertise (KNIDSE) stated that Russia had first used the "Zircon" against Ukraine.

According to The New York Times, the United States has not yet confirmed that Russia may have used the "Zircon" missile during the attack on Kyiv on February 7.

Sidhart Kaushal, a research fellow and maritime force expert at the Royal United Services Institute (UK), noted that the missile was tested in 2015, and in 2022, the Russians claimed its readiness.

Rocket strike on Kyiv

An air raid alert was announced in some regions of Ukraine, including Kyiv and the region, around 10:30 on March 25. The Air Force warned of the ballistic threat. Almost immediately, explosions were heard in Kyiv.

Debris from missiles fell in several districts of the capital, damaging a multi-story building in the Pecherskyi district. Five casualties are confirmed.

Later, it became known that Russia struck Kyiv with two ballistic missiles launched from the occupied territory of Crimea. They were downed by air defense.

Part of the building of the Mykhailo Boichuk Decorative Applied Arts and Design Academy was damaged by a Russian rocket strike on Kyiv on March 25.

A Russian ballistic strike on Kyiv on March 25 injured ten people. Rubryka correspondent Mykola Tymchenko visited the scene of the attack.