In a tragic turn of events, a Russian 500-kg glide bomb struck a residential building in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, early Thursday morning. The powerful blast claimed the life of a 12-year-old boy and left dozens injured. Oleh Syniehubov, Kharkiv’s regional head, shared that the boy was freed from the rubble with severe injuries, but despite extensive resuscitation efforts, he could not be saved.
Injuries and Missing Persons After Attack
Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko reported that at least 35 people suffered injuries, with several possibly trapped under the debris. Among the missing is a 15-year-old boy. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to search for survivors in the wreckage.
Zelenskyy’s Renewed Plea for Long-Range Missiles
Following the devastating incident, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on the United States to allow Ukraine access to long-range missiles to counter Russian strikes. Sharing a video of the damaged building on social media, Zelenskyy stressed the urgency of enhanced defensive capabilities, stating, “Each delayed decision means more Russian bombs against Ukraine and more lives lost.”
Escalating Attacks and Increased Use of Glide Bombs
Russian forces have amplified their use of powerful glide bombs in recent assaults, particularly along the 1,000-km frontline. The densely populated city of Kharkiv, located just 30 km from the Russian border, has become a frequent target in this intensifying conflict.
Multiple Strikes Across Ukraine
Russian forces launched a series of attacks throughout Ukraine, including 10 missiles targeting the Dniester Estuary bridge in Odesa and 43 explosive drones over nine Ukrainian regions. Ukrainian air defense managed to intercept some of these threats, though significant damage was still reported, particularly in Kyiv’s Podil district, where residents face near-daily air alerts.
Ukraine’s Retaliation and Ongoing Drone Warfare
In response, Ukrainian forces conducted drone strikes on Russian-controlled territories, with reports from Berdyansk indicating injuries and damage in the port area. Meanwhile, Russia’s Defense Ministry claims to have downed 21 Ukrainian drones, underscoring the intensifying drone warfare between the two nations.
A Cry for International Support
With attacks on the rise, Ukrainian leadership is pressing for international aid to strengthen defenses and prevent further tragedies like Kharkiv’s recent bombing. The country’s resilience remains strong, but officials urge that timely support from global allies could help change the course of the conflict.
