Russia has dramatically escalated its military campaign against Ukraine, launching a major strike using advanced Kinzhal hypersonic missiles and long-range drones. This comes just after Russian air defences intercepted drones approaching the capital, Moscow, highlighting the expanding and reciprocal nature of the conflict.
Fresh Offensives and Hypersonic Escalation
The Russian defence ministry announced fresh battlefield gains in eastern Ukraine on December 24, 2025, stating its forces have captured settlements in the Kharkiv and Dnepropetrovsk regions. This offensive push is being supported by heavy artillery, drone units, and the use of thermobaric weapons, known for their devastating explosive impact.
In a significant intensification, the Russian military deployed its prized Kinzhal hypersonic missiles in a coordinated attack. These high-precision weapons, capable of evading most existing air defence systems, were reportedly aimed at Ukrainian defence and energy infrastructure. The strike represents one of the most severe kinetic actions in recent weeks.
War Expands on Multiple Fronts
The conflict is now manifesting on two active fronts: the intense ground fighting in Ukraine's east and the aerial duel reaching Russian soil. The drone activity over Moscow underscores the growing risks to major population centres on both sides, signalling a potential new phase where long-range strikes become more frequent.
Despite the fierce combat, diplomatic channels remain active. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky indicated that recent peace talks with United States officials have served to strengthen Kyiv's negotiating position. However, these diplomatic contacts have done little to slow the immediate military escalation, with the war's scope and intensity continuing to grow.
No Signs of De-escalation
The simultaneous events of December 24 paint a clear picture of a war that is far from winding down. The use of top-tier weaponry like hypersonic missiles suggests Russia is committed to maintaining maximum pressure on Ukrainian defences and critical national infrastructure.
Analysts observe that the capture of new settlements, coupled with strategic missile strikes, aims to solidify Russian gains before any potential frozen conflict or negotiation table scenario. For Ukraine, the ability to target Moscow with drones, even if intercepted, serves as a stark message about the war's potential reach.
The coming days will be critical in assessing the damage from the hypersonic missile barrage and whether Ukraine's bolstered position from US talks translates into tangible military or diplomatic countermeasures. For now, the winter of 2025 sees the war entering an even more dangerous and technologically advanced stage.
