Ukrainian officials reported that a Russian strike on an apartment block in the northeastern city of Kharkiv has resulted in at least 41 people being injured. The incident, which involved a guided aerial bomb hitting a 12-story building, left three children among the injured. Concerns have been raised about potential individuals trapped under the rubble, with a search and rescue operation currently ongoing.
Following the strike, 14 people have been hospitalized, and one person has been reported missing. The impact of the bomb caused a fire on the ninth floor, leading to the complete destruction of three apartments and damage to numerous vehicles in the vicinity. Additionally, hundreds of windows were shattered due to the force of the explosion.
Despite the chaos, efforts are being made to evacuate residents from the affected area. Various specialized, humanitarian, international, and Ukrainian organizations have mobilized to respond to the scene and provide assistance where needed.
Kharkiv, situated near the Russian border, has been a frequent target of attacks since the commencement of the full-scale Russian invasion in 2022. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has once again appealed for increased military support from allies in the wake of this latest assault.
Zelensky emphasized the urgent need for international intervention to counter the ongoing Russian aggression, citing the significant number of missiles, guided aerial bombs, and strike drones launched by Russian forces against Ukraine in recent days. The President stressed the importance of resolute action to halt the terror inflicted by the invaders.
The Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights condemned the attack, labeling it a violation of human rights and international humanitarian law. The Commissioner called for immediate action to address the escalating crisis and protect the civilian population from further harm.
