Kharkiv Under Siege Is This Russia's Endgame?

Kharkiv Reels from Devastating Attack as Russia Intensifies Strikes Across Ukraine

Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, is grappling with the aftermath of what Mayor Igor Terekhov described as "the most powerful attack since the start of the full-scale war." The city endured a barrage of strikes early Saturday morning, leaving at least three people dead and a trail of destruction.

These intensified attacks follow what is believed to be a response to a recent Ukrainian drone operation that significantly impacted Moscow's strategic cruise missile capabilities. The situation remains volatile as both sides trade accusations and continue military operations.

Kharkiv Under Siege: A City in Crisis

Located just 30 kilometers (19 miles) from the Russian border, Kharkiv has been a frequent target. However, Saturday's assault was particularly severe. Mayor Terekhov reported "at least 40 explosions" hitting the city, characterizing it as "outright terror against peaceful Kharkiv."

Emergency services released harrowing video footage showing a massive fire engulfing a multi-story apartment block in the Osnovyanskyi district. Tragically, two residents lost their lives in this incident. Another person was killed when a strike hit a house in the Kyivskyi district.

The assault continued into Saturday evening, with Russia launching further strikes using glide bombs. These attacks resulted in another fatality and left 18 people injured. Mayor Terekhov reported that a children's playground with a miniature railway was targeted during the second wave of attacks.

Key details of the Kharkiv attack:

• At least 40 explosions rocked the city.
• Three people confirmed dead in the initial strikes, with another fatality later in the day.
• Targeted areas include residential buildings and a children's playground.

International Response and Accusations

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha condemned the attacks, stating that Russia "continues its terror against civilians," and called for increased pressure on Moscow. Meanwhile, Russia's Ministry of Defense claimed its forces conducted high-precision strikes on Ukrainian military facilities, asserting that "the strikes achieved their objectives. All designated targets were destroyed."

According to the Kharkiv region prosecutor’s office, the attack involved more than 50 drones, four guided aerial bombs, and a missile. A 14-year-old girl and a one-and-a-half-month-old boy were among the injured, the latter suffering from "acute stress."

Eyewitness accounts paint a grim picture of the chaos and devastation. Ruslana Sheveleva, a Kharkiv resident, described the frantic efforts to escape the damaged buildings, recounting the tragic death of a young man whose house was directly hit. Iryna Ivanenko shared the agonizing experience of her 26-year-old daughter being trapped under a heavy slab in her bedroom, later rescued by firefighters.

Prisoner of War Exchange Stalled Amidst Accusations

Adding to the complexities of the conflict, Russia has accused Ukraine of postponing a prisoner of war exchange and the transfer of deceased soldiers. Kremlin aide Vladimir Medinsky claimed that the Ukrainian side "unexpectedly postponed" the exchange, with their negotiating team failing to appear. However, Ukraine has refuted these claims, accusing Russia of playing "dirty games" and stating that Russia's lists "do not comply with the agreed approach."

Escalation and Global Concerns

The recent surge in attacks follows a barrage of drones and ballistic missiles launched by Russia across Ukraine, resulting in casualties and widespread damage. These events have prompted international concern and renewed calls for de-escalation.

The situation remains fluid and deeply concerning. The human cost of this conflict continues to rise, with civilians bearing the brunt of the escalating violence. The international community must remain focused on finding a path towards a peaceful resolution and providing humanitarian assistance to those affected by this devastating war.

Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/06/07/europe/russia-strikes-kharkiv-ukraine-intl-hnk