A deadly Russian drone attack struck Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, on Saturday night, killing two people and injuring 35 others, including five children. The attack, which damaged a military hospital and several residential buildings, has intensified Ukraine’s calls for stronger international action against Russia’s continued aggression.
Deadly Strike Sparks Outrage
The late-night assault saw explosive-laden drones raining down on Kharkiv, with devastating consequences. One of the injured, a 22-year-old survivor named Anton, recalled the terrifying moment when a drone strike hit his apartment. “I had already bid farewell to life,” he said, showing the bandages on his head and hand from the shrapnel wounds.
Kharkiv’s Mayor, Ihor Terekhov, confirmed the extent of the damage, stating that several dozen residential buildings and a dormitory housing war refugees were also affected. The attack underscored the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, as civilians continue to bear the brunt of the war.
Ukraine’s Air Defenses Under Pressure
Ukraine’s air force reported that Russia had launched 111 drones and one ballistic missile overnight, targeting multiple regions, including Kharkiv, Sumy, Odesa, and Donetsk. Despite successfully shooting down 65 drones and jamming another 35, the damage inflicted remains significant.
The escalation comes amid mutual accusations from Russia and Ukraine of violating a U.S.-brokered partial ceasefire. Ukraine insists that Russia is deliberately undermining diplomatic efforts to bring the war to an end.
Zelenskiy Calls for Stronger Action
As news of the Kharkiv attack broke, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy called for a “serious response” from Ukraine’s Western allies. In his nightly address, he emphasized that these attacks are not just a threat to Ukraine but also an assault on global diplomatic efforts.
“Our partners must understand that these Russian strikes target not only our people but also all international efforts, diplomatic efforts aimed at ending this war,” Zelenskiy stated.
Global Leaders Condemn Russia’s Actions
Western leaders have condemned Russia’s continued military aggression, with European nations vowing to reinforce Kyiv’s military capabilities. French Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Noel Barrot took to social media, declaring, “Ukraine has agreed to the ceasefire proposed by the United States. But Russia continues its war crimes, just yesterday in Kharkiv. Who can still believe that Vladimir Putin wants peace?”
Amid these developments, a U.S.-led peace initiative has sparked concerns in Kyiv. Ukrainian officials fear that President Donald Trump’s administration, which has sought closer relations with Russia, might pressure Ukraine into making unfavorable concessions.
With the war now entering its third year, Ukraine remains steadfast in its fight for sovereignty, urging global leaders to stand firm against Russian aggression.
