Kherson Drone Attack Claims 27 Lives; Ukraine Rejects Civilian Targeting

On Friday, Russian officials announced that a drone attack, purportedly conducted by Ukrainian forces, resulted in the deaths of 27 individuals in the village of Khorly, situated in the Russian-controlled Kherson region. The strike reportedly hit a café and hotel filled with civilians ringing in the New Year. Among those who lost their lives were two minors, with another 31 people, including five minors, admitted to hospitals for injuries.

Svetlana Petrenko, spokesperson for the Investigative Committee of Russia, revealed that a criminal inquiry has begun, focusing on terrorism charges related to this incident.

Ukrainian military representatives have firmly denied the accusations involving civilian targets. Dmytro Lykhovii, a spokesperson for Ukraine’s General Staff, communicated on the national broadcaster Suspilne that Ukrainian forces adhere strictly to international humanitarian law. He asserted that military actions are solely directed at Russian military establishments, energy sites, and other permissible targets. Lykhovii also declared that there were no Ukrainian attacks reported in the occupied Kherson areas during the New Year period.

Additionally, Lykhovii accused Russia of disseminating misinformation to undermine the peace talks that are currently underway.

This incident unfolds amidst renewed diplomatic efforts, spearheaded by the United States, to bring an end to the nearly four-year-long conflict. Earlier this week, Russia alleged that Ukraine carried out a long-range drone assault on President Vladimir Putin's residence—claims that Kyiv dismissed as efforts to sabotage ongoing peace discussions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, during his New Year’s address, indicated that a peace treaty is “90% ready,” yet critical issues, such as territorial disputes, remain open and pivotal to the negotiation outcomes.

In related news, Russian authorities reported a large-scale drone strike on Zaporizhzhia, resulting in nine drones targeting civilian and residential properties. Fortunately, no casualties were reported.

The Ukrainian Air Force noted that Russia launched 116 long-range drones overnight, with 86 intercepted and 27 reaching their designated targets. Conversely, the Russian Defense Ministry stated it had thwarted 64 Ukrainian drones over multiple areas in Russia.

Furthermore, Vyacheslav Gladkov, the governor of Belgorod region adjacent to Ukraine, reported a missile strike on Belgorod city by Ukrainian forces, resulting in injuries to two women and damaging residential properties, a commercial facility, and vehicles.