Russian airstrikes in Ukraine’s Kharkiv have caused chaos and devastation, with dozens wounded in successive night-time attacks. The latest incident saw glide bombs hitting high-rise apartment blocks in the Shevchenkivsky district, destroying two buildings and damaging seven more. Among the wounded were an eight-year-old and two 17-year-olds, as well as several older adults. This attack followed another assault the previous night that injured 15 people, including young children. Ukrainian officials reported the use of KAB-type aerial glide bombs in both attacks, a weapon that has been causing destruction in eastern Ukraine for months.
In addition to the glide bombs, Russia also launched 80 Shahed drones and two missiles at Ukraine overnight into Sunday. The Ukrainian air force managed to shoot down 71 drones, while another six were lost due to electronic warfare countermeasures. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attacks, stating that Russia had launched a staggering number of guided aerial bombs, drones, and missiles in the past week. He emphasized the need to strengthen Ukrainian capabilities to protect lives and ensure safety in the face of continued aggression.
The city of Kharkiv has been a target of multiple Russian airstrikes, with residential neighborhoods being hit by bombs and drones. Local governor Oleh Syniehubov reported that two residential buildings were destroyed in the recent attacks, adding to the already significant damage in the area. The attacks have resulted in numerous injuries, including children as young as eight years old. Kharkiv mayor Ihor Terekhov expressed concern over the escalating violence, noting that three neighborhoods had been targeted by Russian airstrikes.
The use of KAB-type aerial glide bombs in the attacks on Kharkiv is particularly troubling, as these weapons have been causing widespread destruction in eastern Ukraine for an extended period. The retrofitted Soviet bombs have been responsible for devastation and loss of life in previous attacks, highlighting the severity of the situation in Kharkiv. Despite efforts by the Ukrainian air force to intercept and neutralize incoming drones and missiles, the attacks have persisted, leading to mounting casualties and damage in the city.
President Zelenskyy’s call for the strengthening of Ukrainian capabilities to defend against Russian aggression underscores the urgent need for increased support and resources. The ongoing attacks on Kharkiv demonstrate the ruthless nature of the conflict and the impact on civilian populations. As the violence continues and casualties rise, it is essential for the international community to condemn the attacks and support Ukraine in its efforts to defend against further aggression. The situation in Kharkiv serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of war and the urgent need for peace and stability in the region.
