Russia accused Ukraine of killing 24 people, including a child, in a drone strike on New Year’s Eve. The attack hit a hotel and cafe in Russian-controlled Kherson. Russian officials called it a “terrorist attack” and a “war crime.”
The strike reportedly injured 50 people, including six minors, who were being treated in hospitals. Vladimir Saldo, the Russian-installed governor of Kherson, said three Ukrainian drones deliberately targeted civilians celebrating the New Year. He claimed many were burned alive in the attack.
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Photos released by local authorities showed fire damage and blood stains. Reuters could not independently verify the images or the allegations. Russia’s Foreign Ministry said the strike appeared pre-planned, aiming at crowded civilian areas.
Senior Russian politicians and parliament speakers condemned Ukraine. Maria Zakharova, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, blamed Western supporters of Kyiv for the attack. Russia claimed that Kherson is part of its territory, though most countries and Kyiv consider the 2022 annexation illegal.
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Ukraine’s military did not immediately respond to Russia’s claims. The incident reflects the ongoing violence in southern Ukraine, where civilian casualties have risen amid drone and artillery strikes. Analysts fear tensions may escalate further in the region.