A devastating missile attack has left at least three dead and 16 injured in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city. The barrage of missiles, suspected to be S-300s, targeted three separate locations, including a five-storey apartment building, a shop within a three-storey structure, and a garment factory in the Novobazarskyi district.
The strikes, reminiscent of “double tap” tactics, hit the sites in quick succession, increasing the risk to emergency responders and trapping potential survivors under the debris. The assault occurred around midnight local time, causing extensive damage to the affected buildings.
Regional Governor Oleh Syniehubov expressed grave concern over the situation, noting the destruction of multiple floors, stairwells, and facades of the targeted structures. Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov described the devastation as severe, highlighting the catastrophic impact on the affected areas.
Among the casualties are reported to be children and an emergency medic, with fears of a rising death toll as rescue efforts continue. Kharkiv Police Chief Volodymyr Tymoshko emphasised the likelihood of further casualties due to the extensive destruction and the potential for shrapnel injuries.
The city of Kharkiv, situated near the border with Russia’s Belgorod region, has faced relentless attacks in recent weeks, with a hardware superstore bombing claiming 17 lives just last weekend. Despite enduring significant losses, Kharkiv had initially withstood Russian advances following the invasion in February 2022.
Meanwhile, in a significant development, US officials disclosed that President Joe Biden had lifted restrictions on Ukraine’s use of US-supplied weapons. These weapons are now authorised for targeting Russian troops and military installations in areas adjacent to the Kharkiv region, marking a notable shift in US policy towards the conflict.
source: Aljazeera
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