Devastating Russian airstrikes target Kharkiv and Odesa cities

Four people have tragically lost their lives after Russian airstrikes hit the city of Kharkiv on Friday, as Ukrainian troops fought to prevent further Russian advances in the region. The airstrikes, which targeted Ukraine’s second-largest city during the day, also left 25 people injured. Oleh Syniehubov, head of Kharkiv Oblast Military Administration, confirmed that the death toll had risen from two to four.

The air alarm in Kharkiv sounded for more than 16 hours on Thursday, marking a record since the start of the military campaign by Russia. The city has been under almost daily airstrikes as intense battles continue in the region. Additionally, one person was killed and eight others were wounded in Odesa following Russian airstrikes, with five people hospitalized and three treated on the spot.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian troops are actively working to halt Russian advances in the northeastern Kharkiv region, which began late last week. Recent Russian attacks have also targeted other regions in Ukraine, including Donetsk, Chernihiv, Sumy, and Zaporizhzhia. President Vladimir Putin stated that the attacks were in retaliation for Ukrainian shelling in Russia’s Belgorod region.

In response to the escalating conflict, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed two laws allowing prisoners to enlist in the army and increasing fines for draft evasion. Approximately 8,000 civilians have been evacuated from the town of Vovchansk near the Russian border. Ukraine’s military chief, Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, noted that Russia’s new offensive has extended the active hostilities zone by nearly 70 kilometers.

The situation remains tense as both sides continue to engage in conflict, with Ukrainian forces working tirelessly to defend their territory against Russian aggression.