Russia targets the civilian population of Kharkiv in massive overnight assault

In today’s early hours, Kharkiv endured one of the most brutal mornings of the war, as Russia launched a concentrated attack on the city using 53 Shahed drones, 2 missiles, and 4 guided bombs in under two hours. The early morning strike — starting just after 3:10am — killed at least 3 people and injured 17, including 2 children, according to local officials.

Bodies were strewn in common areas with more than 50 explosions recorded between 3am and 6am as entire residential blocks were rocked by missiles, glide bombs, and drones, targeting homes, apartment complexes, civilian centers, and shopping areas. Local authorities reported extensive destruction across at least 18 apartment buildings and 13 private homes. Fires broke out in multiple locations, with emergency services struggling to reach all affected areas amid continued aerial threats.

Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov described the assault as the city’s worst since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.

“Approximately 55 explosions rocked the city over two hours,” he reported via Telegram. “Russia hit us simultaneously with missiles, Shahed drones, and guided bombs.”

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the assault as deliberate terrorism. In a statement on X, he said Russia launched more than 400 drones and 40 missiles across the country overnight, adding:

“There were no military targets, nor could there be any. This is terrorism. We need more air defense. We need more strength. And we need it now.”

In a stark appeal, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy Yuliia Svyrydenko shared the following statement on X:

“Rescuers are currently attempting to pull survivors from burning buildings and from under rubble in Kharkiv at this hour, after Russians committed what is said to be the largest attack of the war, with at least 2 dead and dozens injured, including children.

Over 50 explosions within two hours, as missiles, guided bombs, and drones targeted residential buildings and civilian centers all over the city.

Every day the attacks on our people are increasing. The world has everything in their power to stop this, right now.

At what point does standing by become complicity?”

Svyrydenko’s words reflect mounting frustration in Kyiv over what Ukrainian officials see as insufficient Western urgency in halting Russia’s campaign of civilian destruction. The call is clear: more air defenses, fewer restrictions, faster delivery.