KYIV — Russia has escalated its assault on Ukrainian civilian populations, launching a new wave of attacks in the early hours of Friday morning, particularly targeting the residential districts of Kharkiv. The strike involved the use of a 9M727 jet-powered supersonic missile, which is reported to be comparable to the American Tomahawk, according to Serhiy Bolivanov, the head of the local police department. This missile is notably equipped with stealth technology, enabling it to evade radar detection.
This attack coincided with Good Friday, a significant day for many Orthodox Ukrainians as they prepare for Easter festivities. The brutal strike resulted in the tragic death of a 79-year-old man in his apartment, while over 100 individuals sustained injuries. Moreover, more than 500 residents have been displaced from their homes as a result of the bombardment. Bolivanov reported, “They have blast injuries, shrapnel cuts, and shock. There are seven children among the injured.”
Escalating violence and humanitarian crisis
This recent attack on Kharkiv marks the third consecutive incident in which Russian forces have employed ballistic missiles filled with cluster munitions against civilian targets. Just last weekend, a similar assault on Sumy during Palm Sunday claimed the lives of 35 people, while an earlier attack on Kryvyi Rih resulted in 20 fatalities.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has issued warnings regarding the potential for continued strikes, particularly over the Easter weekend, emphasizing concerns that Russia is likely to escalate its targeting of crucial energy infrastructure throughout Ukraine.
Russian claims and international implications
In a statement, the Russian defense ministry insisted that the missile attack aimed at specific locations housing drone launchers. However, the evidence on the ground suggests a starkly different reality, raising questions about the targeting protocols and the ongoing humanitarian crisis faced by civilians.