Russia Accuses Ukraine of Deadly Drone Strike in Kherson Region
A New Year’s drone strike in the Russian-occupied Kherson region has left at least 27 people dead, according to Russian sources, escalating tensions amidst ongoing conflict between the two countries. The alleged attack is said to have targeted a hotel and café in the village of Khorly, raising concerns over civilian safety and the complexities surrounding reports from contested areas.
Why It Matters
This incident illustrates the fragile and volatile landscape of the Russia-Ukraine war, particularly in regions recently annexed by Moscow. As diplomatic efforts for peace continue, this attack could derail conversations and heighten military tensions, complicating the already intricate situation on the ground.
Key Developments
- Russia claims that at least 27 people died and over 30 were injured in the drone strike.
- The strike reportedly involved three unmanned aerial vehicles targeting a café and hotel in Khorly.
- Ukraine has not confirmed specific details, stating it adheres to international humanitarian law and targets only military objectives.
- Reports indicate Ukraine’s defense forces acknowledged an attack but claimed it targeted a military gathering closed to civilians.
- Russian authorities have opened an investigation into the incident, while Moscow accuses Ukraine of trying to instill fear in Russian-occupied territories.
Full Report
Details of the Attack
Russian-installed regional governor Vladimir Saldo announced the drone strike’s casualties, claiming three UAVs were responsible for the assault on a gathering at a location also known as "Ukrainian House," now renamed "Buganova’s Cafe." Images circulated by state media depict significant destruction, including interior damage and what appears to be a body under a sheet.
Ukrainian Response
When asked to comment, a Ukrainian government representative declined to engage with information from local officials in occupied territories. Instead, they emphasized adherence to international law, stressing that military actions are focused on sanctioned military targets. A source within Ukraine’s defense forces acknowledged that the attack indeed occurred but clarified it was aimed at military personnel, asserting that civilians were not present.
International Reactions
The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine is aware of the allegations and intends to validate claims of civilian harm, which will feature in future assessments. Moreover, Russia’s Investigative Committee has initiated an inquiry into the events, while the Russian foreign ministry accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of attempting to intimidate civilians in the annexed regions.
Context & Previous Events
Russian authorities claim more than half of the southern Kherson region was annexed in a controversial referendum held in 2022, which Ukraine and its allies condemned as illegitimate. The recent strike appears to coincide with ongoing diplomatic discussions, where Zelensky suggested that a U.S.-mediated agreement with Russia is "90% ready." Earlier this week, Ukraine denied allegations from Moscow regarding a supposed drone attack on one of President Putin’s residences, while Ukraine’s foreign intelligence service warned of potential provocations by Russia aimed at undermining peace negotiations.
