Russia launched a large-scale overnight missile and drone attack on Ukraine on January 9-10, 2026, impacting multiple regions and causing significant damage and casualties. A key aspect of this assault was the deployment of the advanced Oreshnik hypersonic missile, a nuclear-capable intermediate-range ballistic missile known for its extreme speed (Mach 10) and difficulty to intercept. This marks only the second confirmed operational use of the Oreshnik, with the prior instance in November 2024 reportedly involving dummy warheads. Experts and international officials interpret the Oreshnik strike, particularly its proximity to Ukraine's border with Poland (a NATO member) and the EU, as a deliberate warning from Moscow to Western allies regarding their support for Kyiv. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas explicitly stated that the missile was intended as a warning to Europe and the US, demanding a strong response to Russia's actions. The attack unfolded amidst a complex geopolitical landscape involving US President Donald Trump, who is currently in his second term. While the headline's "Trump's peak aggression" is an exaggeration given his multifaceted approach, his administration has been involved in both threatening sanctions against Moscow and pursuing peace deals. Notably, Trump had recently rejected Russian claims of a Ukrainian drone attack on Putin's residence, which Moscow cited as justification for its strikes. His foreign policy includes increasing weapons supplies to European allies while also at times blaming Ukraine for the conflict or pausing aid. The missile barrage left nearly 500,000 people in Kyiv and surrounding regions without electricity and heat amid freezing temperatures, prompting calls for evacuation. Ukraine's Foreign Minister called the use of the Oreshnik missile near the EU/NATO border a "grave threat" to European security.