Russia strikes Ukraine’s Kharkiv hospital before Zelensky meets Trump seeking urgent US military aid

Russia strikes Kharkiv with bombs: Russian forces carried out a heavy assault on Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, using glide bombs and drones. The attack damaged the city’s main hospital and forced the emergency evacuation of fifty patients. According to local officials, seven people were injured. The strike is part of Moscow’s continued campaign against Ukraine’s infrastructure and civilian areas. The latest incident has again raised alarms about Russia’s expanding use of powerful guided weapons against vulnerable cities. Kharkiv residents described the attack as sudden and terrifying.

Hospital and energy sites targeted

Oleh Sinyhubov, head of Kharkiv’s regional administration, confirmed that a hospital was directly struck in the assault. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky added that energy facilities were also targeted, including power plants and gas installations. He said Russia continues to strike energy lines every night, trying to cripple Ukraine’s supply systems before the harsh winter. The destruction of essential facilities has deepened fears of a humanitarian crisis, particularly in northeastern Ukraine. Evacuations and repairs remain ongoing as the situation worsens.

Zelensky urges stronger air defense

Following the attack, Zelensky once again appealed to Western allies for stronger air defense systems. He urged the United States, Europe, and the G7 nations to provide urgent support. “Ukraine needs more systems to protect our skies and people,” Zelensky said in a statement on Telegram. He stressed that the world must pressure Moscow into serious negotiations. Without additional defense equipment, Ukraine remains vulnerable to daily drone and missile strikes that continue to cause widespread destruction.

Aid levels show sharp decline

Recent data shows that military aid to Ukraine has fallen sharply this year. Germany’s Kiel Institute reported that foreign military support dropped by 43 percent in July and August compared to earlier months. This decline has left Ukraine in a precarious position as it battles continued Russian offensives. The numbers reflect donor fatigue as well as political debates in Western capitals about long-term commitments. Analysts warn that unless aid levels rise again, Ukraine’s defenses could weaken further.

Trump-Zelensky meeting draws attention

Zelensky is scheduled to meet US President Donald Trump in Washington on Friday. The talks are expected to focus on fresh aid packages, especially advanced missile systems. Trump has already warned Moscow that the United States could supply Tomahawk cruise missiles to Ukraine. Such a move would dramatically change the battlefield dynamics. For Ukraine, the meeting is critical as it hopes to secure renewed American support after months of uncertainty and declining European assistance.

Global reaction to the attack

The hospital strike in Kharkiv has drawn condemnation from international leaders and humanitarian groups. Many called it a violation of international law, as hospitals are considered protected sites during conflict. Human rights organizations demanded that Moscow face accountability for targeting civilian infrastructure. At the same time, world leaders emphasized the need for urgent diplomatic efforts. However, with fighting intensifying and Moscow showing no signs of compromise, hopes for peace remain fragile. The humanitarian cost continues to climb.

Ukraine braces for difficult winter

As winter approaches, Ukraine faces the dual challenge of defending against Russian strikes and keeping its citizens warm and safe. Energy attacks have already caused widespread blackouts. The hospital strike adds to the trauma for civilians who are already exhausted by nearly three years of war. Zelensky’s plea for stronger air defense is as much about survival as military strength. The coming weeks, especially after his meeting with Trump, may decide Ukraine’s ability to resist further Russian aggression.