Russia Intensifies War With Deadly Drone Strike On Ukrainian City, Killing Children Overnight

New Delhi: Ukraine’s Interior Ministry confirmed that Russia carried out a night-time drone and missile attack on two nine-storey residential apartment buildings in Ternopil city. The strike killed 25 civilians, including six children, and injured 125 others. Rescue teams are still searching for people trapped under the collapsed debris. Officials said this is one of the deadliest attacks on western Ukraine since the war began in February 2022. Earlier reports suggested 37 injured, but the number rose as rescue operations continued. Authorities described the blast impact as catastrophic for the region.

How Massive Was The Strike?

According to Ukrainian Air Force sources, Russia launched 476 strike and decoy drones along with 48 different types of missiles aimed at multiple Ukrainian locations. The intense bombardment caused widespread panic, especially as many of the targets were civilian structures. President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that repeated attacks on non-military areas prove global pressure on Russia has failed to stop aggression. Human rights groups are demanding emergency UN intervention. Witnesses described the attack as sudden, without any prior warnings.

Is Diplomatic Action Now Intensifying?

Following the incident, Zelensky announced he will meet Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to discuss ways to increase international pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Ukrainian leader believes diplomatic channels must strengthen to prevent future civilian tragedies. Authorities are expected to raise the attack in upcoming international security forums. Observers say the event may shape future talks on humanitarian safety zones. Diplomats fear worsening conflict unless global powers act firmly.

Were Other Regions Also Hit?

Yes, Ukrainian officials reported additional strikes across multiple areas, injuring nearly 50 more civilians. Poland and Romania responded by tightening their airspace security, deploying fighter jets including Eurofighter Typhoons and F-16s. Polish airports reportedly suspended night operations due to safety concerns. In Kharkiv, Russia’s drone strike injured 46 people, including two teenage girls, and destroyed several civilian buildings, an ambulance post and a local school. Local authorities stated that infrastructure damage may impact essential services.

Did Ukraine Also Launch Its Missiles?

Russian Defence Ministry claimed that Ukraine fired four US-supplied ATACMS missiles toward the Russian city of Voronezh. All missiles were intercepted, but debris reportedly fell on an orphanage and a gerontology centre. No Russian civilian casualties were officially recorded in the aftermath. Ukraine has not issued a full statement on the strike. Analysts believe Kyiv may be attempting to apply pressure on Russian command to halt continued attacks on civilian areas.

How Are Emergency Teams Responding?

In Ternopil, emergency workers are battling harsh winter weather while trying to clear rubble and pull survivors from damaged buildings. Local officials said children were among those still missing. Medical teams reported treating burn injuries and blast trauma, with temporary medical camps being set up. Volunteers have been distributing blankets, food and basic medicines to affected families. Humanitarian agencies warn that more casualties could be discovered as recovery continues.

What Is The Global Community Saying?

World leaders have strongly condemned the attack, calling it unacceptable and urging immediate de-escalation. Analysts warn that the situation could escalate further if diplomatic talks fail. Many believe the latest strike may push Western governments to consider stricter measures. The conflict, now in its third year, continues to claim civilian lives despite repeated negotiation attempts. Global attention is once again focused on Ukraine, with calls growing louder for rapid and effective peace building mechanisms.