Russian 'Double Tap' Missile Strikes Devastate Kharkiv and Donetsk

Russian forces launched a 'double tap' missile attack on a town near Kharkiv, Ukraine, killing two and injuring 23. Additional strikes targeted the Donetsk region, killing another two. Despite Russia's denial of targeting civilians, the tactic has been used effectively. Surrounding areas face continual assaults.

Russian forces launched a 'double tap' missile attack on Saturday on a small town near Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, resulting in the deaths of two individuals: an emergency services official and a police officer, officials reported.

Authorities also confirmed two fatalities in Russian strikes in the Donetsk region to the southeast. Prosecutors indicated the mid-afternoon missile attack aimed at the Budy railway station, southwest of Kharkiv. A second missile struck after rescue teams arrived.

In total, 23 individuals sustained injuries in these attacks. Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko announced that the head of Kharkiv district emergency services and a rapid reaction police officer were among the deceased. The injured included three emergency workers, a policeman, and approximately 20 civilians.

Independent verification by Reuters remains pending as Russia denies deliberately targeting civilians. Nonetheless, Russian forces have historically employed the 'double tap' strategy for significant impact. Although Kharkiv evaded initial capture post the February 2022 invasion, the city and its surrounding region have remained under constant assault. Ukrainian authorities claim these attacks have reduced in frequency following the resumption of U.S. weapon supplies to Ukraine after a hiatus.

Donetsk regional governor Vadym Filashkin reported a multi-storey apartment building in Chasiv Yar was struck by multiple rocket launchers. This town is pivotal for Russian forces advancing through eastern Ukraine. Furthermore, a guided bomb caused a fatality near Kurakhove, an area experiencing some of the fiercest battles along the extensive 1,000-km frontline.

(With inputs from agencies.)