Post by : Saif Rahman

In early hours of Saturday, Ukraine faced renewed assaults from Russian forces, primarily targeting its largest cities, Kyiv and Kharkiv. Officials reported that 13 civilians suffered injuries as missiles and drones struck urban areas, hospitals, and essential facilities.

The airstrikes led to extensive fires, power outages, and critical damage, jeopardizing the safety of civilians during the frigid winter months.

Kyiv's Mayor, Vitali Klitschko, confirmed that two of the injured were in serious condition after being hospitalized. Explosions echoed across various districts, including those on both banks of the Dnipro River which bisects the city.

The Ukrainian air force indicated that both drone and missile assaults were part of the attack strategy. Chief Tymur Tkachenko of Kyiv's military administration stated that drone strikes were documented across at least three districts, resulting in fires in two areas.

As the year commenced, Kyiv has repeatedly endured nighttime attacks that have severely affected its electricity and heating networks, leaving numerous residential buildings without power and warmth. Emergency services have been tirelessly engaged in restoring electricity as temperatures plummeted to -13 degrees Celsius.

Many residents have turned to state-run “Points of Invincibility,” which offer heating, electricity, food, and essential support during outages.

Kharkiv, situated near the Russian frontier and recognized as Ukraine’s second-largest city, was also heavily affected. Mayor Ihor Terekhov reported 11 injuries from drone strikes in various districts.

City officials noted that these attacks impacted a dormitory for displaced people, a hospital, and a maternity facility. Medical teams promptly attended to the injured and worked to secure damaged sites.

Kharkiv has consistently been targeted throughout the conflict due to its proximity to Russia, leading to frequent dangers for civilian areas and heightening concerns about overall safety and humanitarian issues.

The recent assaults coincided with ongoing discussions involving representatives from Ukraine, Russia, and the United States in the United Arab Emirates aimed at resolving the prolonged conflict.

Nevertheless, ground hostilities persist, imposing the heaviest burdens on civilians. Power shortages, bitter cold, and unending air raid alerts have become a grim norm for millions across Ukraine.

As winter progresses, damage to vital infrastructure exacerbates survival challenges, particularly for families, children, and the elderly. These latest assaults emphasize the continuing humanitarian toll of the conflict and the critical need for a sustainable ceasefire.

#Global News