Asger Risom
Russia launched a deadly drone strike in Ukraine’s Chernigov region Wednesday night, killing at least five people and injuring 23 others, including children and a pregnant woman.
As the war in Ukraine drags into its third year, civilians continue to bear the brunt of intensifying hostilities. Drone strikes, once seen as a supplementary tactic, have become a hallmark of Russia’s military strategy — with devastating consequences for communities caught in the crossfire.
Civilian Deaths in Chernigov and Kharkiv
A drone assault late Wednesday targeted the northern Ukrainian city of Pryluky, where at least five people — including a one-year-old child — were killed. The regional governor, Viacheslav Chaus, said residential buildings were struck, with six people hospitalized following the attack.
Simultaneously, Russia launched additional strikes in the northeastern city of Kharkiv, close to the border, wounding 17 more people. Among the injured were a pregnant woman, several children, and a 93-year-old resident, according to governor Oleg Synehubov.
These new drone attacks underscore a grim reality for civilians in Ukraine’s north, where previously quieter areas are now becoming targets.
Strategic Escalation After Ukrainian Strike
The wave of attacks came shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump held a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump warned on Wednesday that Moscow was preparing retaliation following a Ukrainian strike on Russian bombers.
According to Digi24, Russia now occupies roughly 20% of Ukraine’s territory, including the annexed Crimean Peninsula. The ongoing conflict has left tens of thousands dead or wounded, destroyed entire towns and villages in the east and south, and displaced millions.
Despite international appeals, President Putin continues to reject calls for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. As fighting escalates and new fronts open, the humanitarian toll continues to mount.