A deadly missile strike hit the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv on Friday afternoon, killing two people, including a three-year-old child, and injuring approximately 28 others, authorities confirmed. The attack, which almost completely destroyed a multi-storey residential apartment block, has been condemned by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as “heinous” and highlights the ongoing humanitarian toll of the conflict in Ukraine.

Details of the Kharkiv Attack

Regional officials reported that the bodies of a woman and a young child were found in the rubble, with initial information suggesting they may have been a mother and her son. Of the injured, 16 people—including a six-month-old baby—were taken to local hospitals.

Governor Oleh Syniehubov confirmed that search and rescue operations are ongoing, with over 80 volunteers working tirelessly to recover survivors and assess structural damage.

The incident comes just days before crucial peace talks in Kyiv, brokered by the United States, where around 15 countries, EU and NATO representatives, and a US delegation via video link are expected to participate. These talks are part of broader efforts to de-escalate the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with coalition leaders also scheduled to meet in France on 6 January 2026.

Conflicting Claims

While Ukrainian authorities reported the missile strike, Russia’s Defence Ministry denied involvement, claiming the blast was caused by Ukrainian ammunition detonating. The Russian Ministry cited pre-attack footage showing “heavy smoke of unknown origin” and alleged that reports of the strike were intended to distract attention from a New Year’s Eve attack in southern Kherson.

Russia further accused Ukraine of killing at least 27 people and injuring more than 30 in a drone strike on a New Year’s party in the village of Khorly, though these claims have not been independently verified.

The Ukrainian government emphasized that it adheres to international humanitarian law and conducts strikes only against military targets.

International Reactions and Context

President Zelensky condemned the attack, stating on X:

“Unfortunately, this is how the Russians treat life and people – they continue killing, despite all efforts by the world, and especially by the United States, in the diplomatic process.”

The strike underscores the continued vulnerability of civilian populations in Ukraine and the challenges of conducting peace negotiations amidst ongoing attacks on residential areas.

Officials are continuing rescue and recovery efforts in Kharkiv, with authorities prioritizing the safety of residents and the identification of casualties.