Russian forces launched drone attacks on two apartment buildings and a power plant in Kharkiv, Ukraine, resulting in the deaths of four people. This escalation in aerial bombardments of civilian areas signifies the beginning of a new strategy by the Kremlin, as they prepare for a large-scale offensive in the coming months. Ukrainian officials have accused Russia of using a military tactic known as a “double tap” to target rescue workers in residential areas, a method previously employed in Syria’s civil war.
A video of the attack in Kharkiv shows the devastation caused by the drones, with firefighters trying to save lives amidst the chaos. The strikes killed three first responders and a 69-year-old woman, with several others wounded in the process. The Institute for the Study of War suggests that Russia’s increased attacks on civilian areas and critical infrastructure are aimed at forcing Ukraine to deploy air defense systems away from the front line, allowing Russia to provide greater air cover for its ground operations.
The recent attacks in Kharkiv have drawn condemnation from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who described them as a “despicable and cynical attack.” He has requested more air defense systems from Western allies to help protect Ukrainian civilians and first responders. The World Health Organization highlighted the dangers faced by ambulance workers and other health transport staff in conflict zones, as they come under fire while trying to provide assistance to those in need.
Despite the ongoing conflict, Ukrainian soldiers managed to shoot down 11 of the 20 drones launched by Russia during the night. Energy infrastructure in Kharkiv and Dnipropetrovsk has also been targeted in recent attacks, causing power outages and injuries. The Ministry of Energy reported that repairs are underway following a missile attack on a thermal power plant in Kharkiv that left 700,000 people without power last week. Ukrainian human rights chief, Dmytro Lubinets, called for accountability for the acts of terrorism committed by Russia in Ukraine.
As tensions escalate and the conflict continues to ravage Ukraine, the international community is closely monitoring the situation. The United States has assessed that Russia has almost fully reconstituted its military strength with the support of China. The ongoing attacks on civilian areas and the power grid indicate a shift in tactics by Russian forces, as they prepare for a potential large-scale offensive in the summer. Ukraine remains on high alert as it seeks to defend its territory and protect its population from further harm.
