Russian Strikes on Ukraine Kill Six, Wound Dozens in Balakliia and Sumy

Russian strikes across Ukraine killed at least six people and wounded dozens more overnight, according to Ukrainian regional authorities, as emergency crews worked to extinguish fires and remove debris from damaged residential areas.

In the eastern Ukrainian city of Balakliia, rescuers were deployed on Thursday to tackle fires and clear rubble after Russian attacks struck homes overnight. Local authorities said three people were killed in the strikes, adding to the civilian toll from continued fighting across the country.

Ukraine’s northern Sumy region also came under attack, with authorities reporting three deaths and at least 19 people wounded in strikes on settlements across the region.

In the city of Sumy, another 12 people were injured following an attack involving guided aerial bombs, Ukrainian police said. Emergency and law enforcement teams responded to the aftermath as authorities assessed the extent of the damage.

Meanwhile, Ukraine’s southern Kherson region reported additional casualties from a drone strike. The regional administration said a drone attacked a van, leaving six people wounded. Kherson has repeatedly experienced attacks during the war due to its proximity to areas affected by frontline fighting.

The latest Russian strikes on Ukraine highlight the continuing danger faced by residents as aerial bombs, drones and other weapons are deployed in attacks across several regions.

Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, triggering a war that has caused widespread destruction, displaced millions of people and resulted in significant military and civilian casualties.

Both Moscow and Kyiv have denied deliberately targeting civilians during the conflict. However, residential areas and civilian infrastructure have repeatedly suffered damage as fighting continues.

Ukrainian emergency services and local authorities continue to respond to attacks in affected regions, including Balakliia, Sumy and Kherson, while assessing casualties and damage following the latest wave of strikes.