Zelenskyy Condemns ‘Heinous’ Russian Missile Strike on Kharkiv Residential Area

International

oi-Gaurav Sharma

Published: Friday, January 2, 2026, 21:36 [IST]

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has condemned a Russian missile attack on the eastern city of Kharkiv, calling it a "heinous strike" on civilian life and accusing Moscow of deliberately prolonging the war despite ongoing diplomatic efforts.

According to preliminary reports, at least two Russian missiles struck an ordinary residential area in Kharkiv, one of Ukraine's largest cities, late on Tuesday. One multi-storey residential building was severely damaged, with parts of the structure collapsing following the impact. Emergency sirens echoed across the neighbourhood as rescue teams rushed to the scene.

A large-scale rescue operation is currently underway. First responders from the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, along with Kharkiv city officials and regional authorities, have been deployed to search for survivors trapped under debris and to assist injured residents. Firefighters were seen battling flames while medics provided first aid to those evacuated from the damaged building. Authorities said the exact number of casualties is not yet known and will be confirmed once search operations are completed.

In a statement, Zelenskyy said the attack once again demonstrated how Russia treats human life, accusing its forces of targeting civilians rather than military objectives. He noted that the strike came despite sustained diplomatic efforts by the international community, particularly the United States, to push for de-escalation and an end to the conflict.

"Only Russia does not want this war to end," Zelenskyy said, adding that Moscow continues to take actions every day to ensure the fighting goes on. He stressed that such attacks underline the urgent need for Ukraine to strengthen its air defence systems.

The Ukrainian president renewed his appeal for continued international support, calling for more military assistance, especially air defence equipment, to protect cities and civilian lives from ongoing missile and drone attacks. He also expressed gratitude to Ukraine's allies, thanking countries and people around the world who continue to stand with Ukraine amid the nearly three-year-long war.

Kharkiv, located close to the Russian border, has faced repeated bombardment since the start of the invasion, with residential areas frequently bearing the brunt of the attacks.