Russia has launched a massive wave of drone, missile, and glide bomb attacks on Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, killing at least four people and injuring nearly 60. The southern city of Kherson also suffered strikes, with two fatalities reported. The strikes are seen as retaliation for recent Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian railways and air bases.
According to Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov, the city endured 48 drones, two missiles, and four glide bombs on Friday night, with more attacks following on Saturday. Residential areas and civilian infrastructure were heavily hit, including 18 apartment buildings and a facility targeted by 40 drones and four bombs. A baby and a 14-year-old were among the injured. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attacks as “pure terrorism,” stating they had “no military sense” and were meant only to inflict suffering and delay peace. Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha urged Ukraine’s allies to intensify pressure on Moscow.
The escalation coincides with diplomatic confusion over a prisoner and body swap deal agreed in Istanbul. Russia claims Ukraine postponed the exchange, despite their readiness, while Ukraine accuses Russia of breaching the agreed terms and submitting improper lists. Tensions have risen as both sides dispute each other’s intentions and compliance.
Meanwhile, Ukraine revealed details of its “Operation Spider’s Web”, which reportedly damaged or destroyed 40 Russian aircraft using drones hidden in trucks and launched inside Russia. Amid growing global concern, former U.S. President Donald Trump controversially blamed Ukraine for provoking Russia’s latest strikes, citing a conversation with Vladimir Putin. The war, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, shows no sign of abating, with peace talks stalled and Russia still occupying 20% of Ukraine, including Crimea.
