BREAKING: A devastating drone strike in Kherson, Ukraine, has reportedly claimed the lives of at least 24 individuals, including a child, during New Year celebrations in a Russian-controlled area. The attack, which took place at a hotel and cafe, has ignited accusations from Russia against Ukraine, labeling it a “terrorist attack.”
The incident occurred in the coastal village of Khorly, where civilians were gathered to welcome the New Year. Russian authorities, including Vladimir Saldo, the Russian-installed governor, allege that three Ukrainian drones targeted the celebration deliberately, resulting in significant casualties and injuries.
Initial reports from Russia’s foreign ministry indicate that 50 people were injured, among them six minors who are currently receiving hospital treatment. “Many people were burnt alive,” Saldo stated, emphasizing the tragic human toll of this strike. Photographs released by Saldo’s press service show a scene of devastation with visible blood stains and fire damage.
“There is no doubt that the attack was planned in advance, with drones deliberately targeting areas where civilians had gathered to celebrate New Year’s Eve,” the Russian foreign ministry declared, calling the incident “a war crime.”
In response, Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council, pledged vengeance on the battlefield against those responsible. He reiterated the necessity of targeting both the attackers and their commanders. This sentiment was echoed by senior Russian politicians, including the speakers of both houses of parliament, who condemned Ukraine for the strike.
This attack comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, as Kherson is one of four territories Russia claims as its own following illegal annexation in 2022. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy condemned the attack, stating, “On New Year, Russia deliberately brings war.” He reported that over 200 attack drones were launched at various locations across Ukraine overnight.
In a related development, Zelenskiy revealed that energy infrastructure in seven regions, including Volyn and Odesa, suffered significant damage from Russian drone strikes, resulting in widespread power outages. The Ukrainian energy ministry confirmed that a “significant number” of households were left without power due to these actions.
As the situation evolves, the international community is closely monitoring the developments in Kherson and the broader implications for the ongoing conflict. Analysts suggest that these escalating attacks could further complicate peace negotiations, which Zelenskiy recently discussed with US President Donald Trump in Florida.
The urgent ramifications of this latest violence underscore the fragility of safety for civilians in conflict zones, as both sides continue to exchange accusations amid a backdrop of war. The situation remains fluid, and updates are anticipated as more information becomes available.
