Russian Strikes Devastate Kharkiv and Beyond

Russian forces launched multiple attacks on Ukraine's second-largest city, Kharkiv, injuring at least 12 people. Further strikes affected cities like Nikopol and Kurakhove, causing fatalities and widespread damage. The aggressions continue the pattern of Russia's intensifying military operations since the invasion in February 2022.

Russian forces struck a multi-storey apartment building in Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, on Saturday evening, injuring at least 12 people and prompting an evacuation of some residents, Mayor Ihor Terekhov reported.

Located just 30 km from the Russian border, Kharkiv has frequently been targeted since the Kremlin's troops began their invasion in February 2022. Mayor Terekhov, posting on the Telegram messaging app, revealed that a guided bomb was used, and rescue operations are ongoing. Approximately 60 residents have been evacuated due to extensive damage, including shattered windows.

Public broadcaster Suspilne confirmed that the bomb landed in a tree near the building's entrance, causing several cars to explode or catch fire. Regional Governor Oleh Syniehubov noted that a child was among the injured. Additional attacks were reported in Kharkiv and near Izium, the latter setting two private homes on fire.

Further south in Nikopol, a Russian drone attack claimed two lives on Saturday, according to the regional governor. The town of Kurakhove also experienced a fatal artillery strike, regional prosecutors said. In Sumy region, local authorities reported strikes on energy infrastructure in Shostka from Russian aircraft.

(With inputs from agencies.)