Kiev, Ukraine (AP) – A drone strike by Russia in Kharkiv, the second-largest city in Ukraine, has left 47 people injured. Authorities are calling for another appeal from President Volodymyr Zelensky.
According to Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov, the drones targeted 12 locations within the city late Friday night. Oleh Syniehubov from the Kharkiv Regional Government reported that the attack caused damage to residential areas, essential infrastructure, and vehicles.
The Kharkiv Prosecutor’s Office stated on Saturday that the Russian forces deployed drones equipped with thermally pressure warheads. A statement on Telegram indicated that these types of weapons create powerful explosion waves and intense smoke clouds, leading to significant destruction. Prosecutors noted that this could signify a possible breach of international humanitarian law.
“The global community seems to hesitate in making decisive actions, while nearly every night in Ukraine devolves into a nightmare, costing lives,” said a spokesperson. “We need to bolster our air defense. It’s crucial to have strong, concrete actions from the US, Europe, and all partners striving for peace.”
Throughout the night, Russia launched a total of 183 explosive drones and decoys, according to the Ukrainian Air Force. They managed to intercept 77 and lost an additional 73, potentially due to electronic disruption. Russia also fired off two ballistic missiles.
On the other hand, the Russian Ministry of Defense claimed that its air defenses took down 170 Ukrainian drones overnight. They also reported that eight cruise missiles and three guided missiles were intercepted.
In southern Russia, five individuals, including two children, sustained injuries following a drone attack in Novorossiysk at the Black Sea port.
This latest wave of assaults follows the recent signing of an agreement between the US and Ukraine, which grants the US access to Ukraine’s extensive mineral resources. This deal could facilitate ongoing military aid to Kiev, amidst concerns that President Trump may reduce his support amid peace negotiations with Russia.
Talking to reporters in Kiev on Friday, Zelensky expressed that Ukraine stands ready to explore the 30-day ceasefire suggested by the US.
He noted that such a ceasefire could start and last for a month, allowing time for significant steps toward ending the conflict. “Let’s be honest—serious agreements can’t be reached in just three, five, or seven days,” he stated.
Zelensky also commented on Moscow’s announcement of a unilateral 72-hour ceasefire next week to commemorate Victory Day in World War II. He views it as merely an attempt to create a “soft atmosphere” before Russia’s annual celebration. “It feels quite eerie,” he remarked.
Ukrainian officials have consistently stated that their military actions merely reflect a response to Russia’s movements. While he admitted that achieving a complete ceasefire along the entire front is nearly impossible without strong international oversight, he stressed that a 30-day window could serve as a practical starting point.
Zelensky mentioned ongoing efforts to convene meetings with international advisors, stating that despite recent personnel changes in Washington, such gatherings are seen as a “positive sign,” and he hopes they can take place in Ukraine soon.
