Russian Shelling Kills Civilians in Kherson
Russian forces launched a deadly artillery strike on Kherson, killing at least two civilians and injuring several others. The attack, which targeted a residential area early this morning, underscores the ongoing brutality of Russia’s war in Ukraine. Ukrainian officials and international observers have condemned the assault as another blatant violation of international law.
Details of the Attack
Local authorities report that Russian troops shelled a residential neighborhood, hitting an apartment building and a nearby market. Emergency responders recovered the bodies of two victims—a 65-year-old woman and a 42-year-old man. At least five others were wounded, with one in critical condition.
Kherson’s regional governor, Oleksandr Prokudin, confirmed the attack on Telegram, stating:
“The enemy once again shows its cowardice by attacking civilians. These are war crimes, and the world must not look away.”
Social media footage showed thick smoke rising from the impact site, with debris littering the streets.
Kherson’s Ongoing Struggle Under Russian Attacks
Kherson, liberated by Ukrainian forces in November 2022, remains under constant threat due to its proximity to Russian-occupied territory. Since its recapture, the city has endured near-daily shelling, causing dozens of civilian deaths and severe infrastructure damage.
Residents describe living in constant fear. “We hear explosions almost every night,” said Maria Kovalenko, a local teacher. “No one knows where the next strike will hit.” Many families have fled, but those who stay face shortages of electricity, water, and medical supplies.
Global Condemnation & Calls for Justice
The United Nations and human rights groups have repeatedly accused Russia of war crimes for targeting civilians. The latest strike has renewed demands for accountability.
- UN Human Rights Office: “Indiscriminate attacks on civilians violate international law. Perpetrators must be held responsible.”
- Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry: Urged Western allies to accelerate military aid, including air defenses, to protect cities like Kherson.
Russia’s Denial & Escalating Threats
The Kremlin has not directly addressed the attack but routinely denies targeting civilians, instead blaming Ukraine for “false flag” operations. Independent investigations by Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, however, confirm Russian strikes on residential areas with no military presence.
Military analysts warn that Russia may escalate attacks on civilian infrastructure to weaken Ukrainian morale. Serhiy Zgurets, a defense expert, stated:
“This is a deliberate terror tactic—Moscow wants to force surrender through suffering.”
Conclusion: War’s Heavy Toll on Civilians
The Kherson attack is a stark reminder of Russia’s relentless assault on Ukrainian civilians. As global attention wavers, frontline cities continue to bear the war’s heaviest burden.
Key next steps:
– Aid for survivors and infrastructure repair
– Stronger international pressure for justice
– Faster delivery of advanced air defense systems
NextMinuteNews will continue tracking developments.
