Ukraine Intelligence Briefing — 24 May 2026, 15:05 UTC

Based on 35 events from the previous 24 hours. AI-generated from open-source reporting; check the sources before relying on it.

UKRAINE — SITUATION REPORT

24 May 2026 15:05 ZULU

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Russia launched a massive overnight missile and drone attack on Kyiv and surrounding regions, employing hypersonic Oreshnik ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones, resulting in at least four fatalities and widespread damage to civilian infrastructure. Concurrently, Ukraine conducted deep strikes against Russian military-industrial targets in Perm Krai and naval assets in Novorossiysk.

KEY DEVELOPMENTS (past 24 hours)

Massive Russian Aerial Attack on Kyiv: Overnight into May 24, Russia conducted a large-scale aerial assault on Kyiv and its surrounding regions, involving approximately 90 missiles, including 36 ballistic missiles, and 600 drones. Ukrainian air defenses reportedly intercepted 549 drones and 55 missiles.
Hypersonic Oreshnik Missile Use: Russia confirmed the use of the hypersonic Oreshnik ballistic missile, which struck Bila Tserkva in the Kyiv region. This marks the third reported deployment of this weapon in the conflict. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy stated that U.S. and European partners had provided intelligence warning of Russia's intent to use the Oreshnik missile.
Casualties and Damage: The attacks resulted in at least four fatalities and over 80 injuries across the country, with Kyiv experiencing the most significant impact. Damage was reported in over 40 locations across all districts of Kyiv, affecting residential buildings, a water supply facility, a market, schools, a shopping center, an underground car park, and the National Chornobyl Museum.
Ukrainian Deep Strikes:
Metafrax Chemicals Plant: On May 23, Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) reportedly struck the Metafrax Chemicals plant in Gubakha, Perm Krai, Russia, approximately 1,700 km from the Ukrainian border. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy confirmed the strike, noting the facility's role in supplying Russia's military-industrial complex, and stated that production has been halted.
Novorossiysk Naval Base: Overnight on May 23, Ukrainian drones reportedly struck the Novorossiysk naval base, hitting two Black Sea Fleet ships: the frigate Admiral Essen and a Project 1239 hovercraft missile ship. Additionally, two oil terminals, Sheskharis and Grushovaya Balka, were hit, with fires reported.

THREAT ASSESSMENT

Current Threat Level: HIGH. Russia maintains the capability to conduct large-scale, complex aerial attacks targeting civilian infrastructure and population centers, including the deployment of advanced hypersonic missiles.
Key Risk Factors: Continued use of high-value, difficult-to-intercept missiles like the Oreshnik poses a significant threat. The potential for further retaliatory strikes from Russia following Ukrainian deep operations remains high. Strain on Ukrainian air defense capabilities, particularly against ballistic threats, is a persistent concern.

DIPLOMATIC STATUS

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy condemned the Russian attacks and called for international consequences. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also condemned the attacks and pledged further EU support for Ukraine's air defense. Russia's Ministry of Defense stated the Kyiv attack was in retaliation for Ukrainian strikes on "civilian facilities on Russian territory."

OUTLOOK (24–72 hours)

Russia is assessed likely to continue its long-range missile and drone campaign, potentially in response to further Ukrainian deep strikes. Ukraine will likely continue to target Russian military-industrial and logistical assets with drones. Air defense remains a critical priority for Ukraine, with continued requests for Western support.

More Ukraine briefings

All briefings · Open the live map