At least 24 people lost their lives and dozens were injured after a drone strike hit a venue hosting New Year celebrations in Russia-controlled parts of the Kherson region, turning a night of festivities into tragedy. The incident occurred late on New Year’s Eve as civilians gathered to welcome the start of the new year.
According to local officials, multiple drones struck a café and nearby lodging facilities where families and friends had assembled for the celebration. The attack caused a powerful explosion followed by a fire, leading to widespread panic as people attempted to escape the burning building. Emergency responders were quickly deployed to the scene and worked through the night to rescue survivors and provide medical assistance.
Authorities said more than 50 people were injured, several of them critically, and warned that the death toll could rise as some victims remain in serious condition. Hospitals in the region were placed on high alert to accommodate the influx of wounded civilians.
Local administration officials condemned the strike, calling it a deliberate attack on a civilian gathering during a major holiday. They said the venue was crowded at the time of the attack, which contributed to the high number of casualties.
Ukraine has not issued an immediate statement regarding the incident, and claims surrounding the strike could not be independently verified. The situation remains tense as investigations continue and security measures have been tightened across the region.
The Kherson region has been a key flashpoint in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with frequent attacks reported in both civilian and military areas. As drone warfare becomes increasingly common, concerns continue to grow over the safety of civilians living in contested territories.
The deadly New Year’s Eve strike highlights the human cost of the prolonged conflict, as violence spills into moments meant for celebration, marking a grim start to the new year for many families in the region.
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