A Russian airstrike on a high-rise apartment block in Kharkiv, Ukraine, killed three people and injured at least 31. The attack comes as Ukraine urges allies to support deeper strikes into Russian territory.
The background: Tuesday’s airstrike on Ukraine’s second-largest city highlights the ongoing devastation in the war, with civilian areas repeatedly targeted despite international efforts to address the conflict. The strike occurred during the United Nations General Assembly, where leaders are discussing global security and peace.
The key quote: “The targets of the Russian bombs were an apartment building, a bakery, a stadium. In other words, the everyday life of ordinary people.” — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
What else to know: Kharkiv, regularly targeted by Russian forces, has been subjected to repeated airstrikes since the war began. The attack severely damaged a high-rise apartment building that had only recently been repaired after a previous strike. Ukrainian officials are calling for permission to launch deep strikes on Russian military targets to protect civilians.
What comes next: Ukraine continues to push for Western allies to authorise strikes into Russian territory, which they argue is essential to counter future attacks. Meanwhile, the UN remains focused on finding solutions to de-escalate the conflict and secure peace.