New Year turns deadly in Ukraine’s Kherson as drone strike kills 24, dozens injured
Kherson: New Year celebrations in southern Ukraine’s Kherson region turned into a scene of bloodshed after a drone strike hit a hotel and café, killing at least 24 people, including a child, and leaving around 50 others seriously injured, according to Russian officials.
The attack reportedly took place on January 1, when civilians had gathered to welcome the New Year. Russian authorities claimed that Ukraine carried out a targeted drone attack on a venue where a New Year party was underway in the coastal village of Khorly in the Kherson region.
According to official statements, three drones were used in the strike, resulting in extensive damage and heavy casualties. Several victims were reportedly burned alive in the incident. Russia’s Foreign Ministry described the attack as a “terrorist act” and accused Ukraine of deliberately targeting civilians.
Ukraine has not issued a direct response to the specific allegations related to the Kherson strike. However, Ukrainian authorities have acknowledged carrying out drone attacks on strategic energy infrastructure inside Russia.
Kyiv has claimed responsibility for strikes on the Ilsky oil refinery in Russia’s Krasnodar region and the Almetyevsk oil facility in Tatarstan. The Almetyevsk facility is located approximately 965 kilometres from the Ukrainian border, highlighting Ukraine’s expanding long-range strike capabilities.
Meanwhile, Russia has accused Ukraine of attempting a long-range drone attack on President Vladimir Putin’s official residence in northwestern Russia. Ukraine has categorically denied the claim, calling it false and politically motivated.
Ukrainian officials alleged that Russia was fabricating such stories to derail any prospects of ceasefire discussions and to justify continued military operations.
At the same time, Ukraine itself has come under fresh attacks. Ukrainian authorities reported that Russia launched a series of overnight drone strikes on the Odesa region. While residential buildings were damaged, officials said there were no reports of casualties.
Ukraine’s Air Force stated that out of 205 drones launched by Russia, 176 were successfully intercepted and destroyed by air defence systems. The exchange of drone attacks underscores the escalating intensity of the conflict as both sides continue to target infrastructure and strategic locations.
Civilian areas have increasingly been affected, raising concerns among international observers about the humanitarian impact of the ongoing war.
As the conflict enters another year with no clear signs of de-escalation, both Russia and Ukraine continue to trade accusations while intensifying military actions. The latest incidents in Kherson and Odesa once again highlight the fragile security situation and the growing role of drone warfare in shaping the course of the conflict.
