(LVIV REGION, UKRAINE) – Ukraine’s Security Service said it has located and identified fragments of a Russian ballistic missile used in an overnight attack on the Lviv region on January 8 to 9, 2026, concluding that the components belong to the so called Oreshnik missile system.
According to preliminary findings released by the Security Service of Ukraine, the recovered debris includes key elements of the weapon. Investigators reported the discovery of a stabilisation and guidance unit, which they described as the core control system of the missile, as well as parts of the engine unit. Fragments of the orientation mechanism and nozzles from the warhead separation platform were also among the items recovered.
The Security Service said the fragments have been officially registered as material evidence and are being prepared for transfer to specialised facilities for detailed technical examinations.
Ukrainian authorities have classified the use of this weapon against civilian infrastructure as a war crime by the Russian Federation. Investigators believe the missile was a medium range surface to surface system launched from the Kapustin Yar training ground in Russia.
The Security Service said the strike targeted energy and life support infrastructure in the Lviv region, close to the border with the European Union, during a period of sharply deteriorating winter weather. It added that the attack appeared aimed at disrupting essential services for civilians.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the attack damaged energy infrastructure and also affected diplomatic premises, including the embassy of Qatar. He stressed the need for a strong international response, particularly from the United States, to Russia’s use of the Oreshnik system.
Investigators are continuing to establish the full circumstances of the attack, as well as identifying those who organised and carried it out. The pre trial investigation is being conducted under Article 438 of Ukraine’s Criminal Code, which covers violations of the laws and customs of war.
The Security Service said all investigative actions are being carried out under the procedural guidance of the Office of the Prosecutor General.
The use of the Oreshnik missile has drawn international concern. European officials, including EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, described it as a serious escalation and a warning not only to Ukraine but also to Europe and the United States, calling for increased support for Kyiv.
Following Russia’s claims regarding the use of a medium range ballistic missile, Ukraine has initiated urgent consultations. Kyiv has requested an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council, a session of the Ukraine NATO Council, and discussions within the European Union, the Council of Europe, and the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe to coordinate a response.