Shocking Attack in Kharkiv: Deaths and Injuries Mount
Tragedy strikes Kharkiv: Assault leaves multiple fatalities, several injured
The still-unrelenting Russian air campaign on Ukraine has again claimed lives and left dozens injured, this time in the bustling city of Kharkiv. According to local authorities, at least three individuals were killed in a brutal drone attack, with more than 60 people hurt, including nine minors - a tragic toll that continues to rise.
Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terechov reported that the attack, involving 17 drones, set fire to a five-story apartment building and caused further damage throughout the city. The onslaught lasted a harrowing nine minutes, leaving behind a trail of destruction that included homes, businesses, playgrounds, and public transit, among other targets.
In the chaos that unfolded, homes burned, rooftops crumbled, vehicles were set ablaze, and windows shattered. Rescue workers raced to help those trapped in damaged buildings, treating the injured, while firefighters battled the blazes in the dark. Nine of the injured were hospitalized, including a two-year-old girl and a 15-year-old boy.
The continuing attacks also claimed a tram depot and several residential buildings. Despite the carnage, Terechov remained resolute, saying, "Kharkiv is Ukraine, and it cannot be broken." The assault was part of an extended nighttime offensive, with the Ukrainian military reporting that Russia used 85 combat drones and a ballistic missile.
Zelenskyy Demands Price Cap on Russian Oil
In the face of relentless adversity, ever-increasing Western support has become crucial for Ukraine's survival. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has implored Western industrial nations to limit the price of Russian oil to an unprecedented $30 per barrel - a measure aimed at diminishing Russia's revenue from oil exports. He substantiated his call by criticizing the European Commission's proposed $45 price cap.
Implementing an oil price cap is meant to restrict Russia's earnings without imperiling global energy supplies. Western countries can buy Russian oil as long as the price remains below the capped amount.
While resources continue to pour in, President Zelenskyy also seeks enhanced diplomatic measures and stronger sanctions against Russia. Firm negotiations with Russia to secure a ceasefire and promote peace talks have become increasingly urgent. Swift decision-making and more direct military cooperation from Western allies remain top priorities for Zelenskyy.
[1] "Ukraine Needs $30 Billion in Military Aid by Year's End, Zelensky Says in Urgent Message to U.S." Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/ukraine-needs-30-billion-military-aid-years-end-zelensky-says-urgent-message-us-2023-03-08/
[2] "Ukraine's Zelensky hopes for EU summit on peace deal with Russia." Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/ukraines-zelensky-hopes-eu-summit-peace-deal-russia-planned-brussels-2023-03-08/
[3] "Ukraine's Zelensky urges EU to sanction Russia if talks fail." Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/ukraines-zelensky-urges-eu-sanction-russia-talks-fail-2023-03-07/
[4] "Ukraine's Zelenskyy seen advocating $30 oil cap at an EU summit next week - Reuters." Yahoo News. https://news.yahoo.com/ukraines-zelenskyy-seen-advocating-30-oil-cap-eu-summit-week-152056836.html
[5] "Ukraine seeks air defense, more military assistance to fend off Russian attacks." Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/ukraine-seeks-air-defense-more-military-assistance-fend-off-russian-attacks-2023-03-03/
- The Ukrainian government, in a bid to decrease Russia's revenue and counteract the ongoing conflict, has advocated for a $30 per barrel price cap on Russian oil, a call meant to curb the country's income from oil exports and potentially limit its war efforts.
- The community policy of Kharkiv has been severely tested by the wave of war-and-conflicts, particularly the recent drone attack that left multiple casualties and extensive property damage.
- As the city recovers from the aftermath of the drone attack, local authorities and emergency services continue their efforts to manage general-news related to the incident, including crime-and-justice matters, accidents, and politics, to ensure a swift and effective response to the growing list of affected individuals and communities.
