Dozens Injured in Kharkiv Missile Strike Amid Intensified Russia-Ukraine Conflict

A missile attack on Kharkiv injured 47 people, including children, prompting President Zelenskiy to urge allies to provide long-range missiles. The conflict escalates with both sides targeting strategic infrastructure, posing severe risks. Russia’s recent missile and drone attacks have led to significant civilian casualties and destruction.

At least 47 people, including five children, were injured on Sunday after Russian missiles struck a shopping mall and events complex in Ukraine's northeastern city of Kharkiv, officials said. Earlier in the day, Russia claimed Kyiv launched one of the biggest drone attacks since the conflict began, targeting power plants and an oil refinery.

The Kharkiv attack prompted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to renew calls on allies to provide Kyiv with missiles capable of striking deeper into enemy territory. The battle coincides with a crucial juncture in the nearly three-year war, as Russia intensifies its offensive in eastern Ukraine while Ukrainian forces have breached its western border.

Last week's intense Russian airstrikes targeted energy facilities, with Moscow justifying these actions as legitimate military objectives. Thousands of civilians have died since February 2022 due to persistent drone and missile barrages. In response, Ukraine, bolstered by its growing domestic drone industry, has increased attacks on Russian infrastructure while appealing for more powerful Western-supplied weapons to curb Russia's offensive capabilities.

(With inputs from agencies.)