Teen Girls Hurt in Recent Russian Attacks on Ukrainian Cities

Kiev, Ukraine

Russian drones targeted two Ukrainian cities in a nighttime assault, resulting in at least one death, according to authorities. Kremlin representatives anticipate announcing the date for direct peace talks next week.

The attacks focused on the southern port city of Odesa and the northeastern city of Kharkiv, hitting residential buildings, as officials reported.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that over 20 drones were launched, injuring around 20 civilians, including two young girls aged 17 and 12.

Zelenskyy, speaking via the messaging platform Telegram, described Russia’s actions as a continuation of their terror tactics against civilians, calling for increased economic sanctions from the U.S. and the European Union.

Despite more than three years since invading Ukraine, Russia shows little sign of retreat. Along the extensive frontlines, summer assaults are ongoing, with long-range strikes impacting civilian areas.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov mentioned that the date for the next series of peace negotiations should be finalized next week.

Kiev officials have not commented recently on resuming talks with Russia, which last occurred during a meeting in Istanbul on June 2. However, Ukraine is still backing U.S.-led diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a ceasefire.

The previous round of discussions only led to agreements surrounding prisoner exchanges and the return of wounded soldiers.

On Friday, both the Ukrainian and Russian Defense Ministries announced another prisoner swap, but details on the number of troops involved were not disclosed. Zelenskyy indicated that most of those returning had been held for over two years.

A night strike in Odesa resulted in significant damage, with flames engulfing a four-storey residential building. In addition, a fire affected the upper levels of a 23-storey structure, necessitating the evacuation of approximately 600 residents.

In Kharkiv, at least eight drones hit civilian infrastructure, injuring four individuals, including two children, as reported by Ukrainian emergency services.