On June 7, 2025, Russia launched its most intense aerial assault on Kharkiv since the onset of the full-scale invasion in 2022. The overnight barrage involved a combination of drones, missiles, and guided bombs, resulting in significant civilian casualties and widespread destruction.rferl.orgtheguardian.com+2reuters.com+2rferl.org+2
The Assault on Kharkiv🔥
Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, was struck by a coordinated attack comprising 48 Shahed drones, two missiles, and four glide bombs. The offensive targeted residential buildings, educational institutions, and critical infrastructure. At least three people were killed, and 21 others, including children, sustained injuries. thesun.co.uk+1livemint.com+1reuters.com+1theguardian.com+1facebook.com+5theguardian.com+5timesofindia.indiatimes.com+5
Mayor Ihor Terekhov described the incident as “the most powerful attack on Kharkiv since the beginning of the war,” highlighting the unprecedented scale and intensity of the strike. en.wikipedia.org+3reuters.com+3aljazeera.com+3
Nationwide Impact and Defense Response🛡️
The assault on Kharkiv was part of a broader offensive across Ukraine. In total, Russia launched 215 drones and missiles overnight, with Ukrainian air defenses intercepting 87 drones and seven missiles. timesofindia.indiatimes.com+7apnews.com+7euronews.com+7
Other regions, including Kherson, Dnipropetrovsk, Odesa, Ternopil, and Lutsk, also experienced attacks, resulting in additional casualties and infrastructure damage. apnews.com+1theguardian.com+1
Strategic Context🎯
The escalation is perceived as a retaliatory response to Ukraine’s recent “Operation Spiderweb,” which reportedly damaged several Russian airbases and destroyed numerous aircraft. theguardian.com+2thesun.co.uk+2theguardian.com+2
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha condemned the attacks, urging the international community to increase pressure on Russia and provide further support to Ukraine. apnews.com+1theguardian.com+1
Humanitarian Concerns and Future Outlook
The attacks have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Kharkiv, displacing residents and overwhelming emergency services. The destruction of residential areas and essential services underscores the urgent need for enhanced protective measures and international assistance.
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As the conflict continues, the resilience of Ukrainian cities like Kharkiv remains a testament to the enduring spirit of their inhabitants amidst adversity.
