Kharkiv, Ukraine – At least 12 people lost their lives, and 43 others sustained injuries after Russian forces targeted a supermarket in the northern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv with two glide bombs, local officials confirmed. The Epicentr K home improvement store on the city’s outskirts was engulfed in a massive fire following the attack. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed concern that over 200 individuals may have been present at the store during the assault, emphasizing the severity of the situation.
President Zelensky condemned the onslaught on Kharkiv as another display of Russian aggression, labeling it as an act of “madness” perpetrated by individuals capable of extreme violence. Subsequently, a second strike in central Kharkiv resulted in eight injuries, as reported by Mr. Terekhov. The incidents underscore the vulnerability felt by Ukrainians due to the lack of adequate air defenses, prompting calls for support from Western allies for crucial air defense systems.
Furthermore, efforts to fund Ukraine’s war against Russian forces gained momentum as G7 finance ministers supported the proposal to utilize proceeds from frozen Russian assets. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen highlighted widespread backing for the initiative, suggesting the potential collateralization of $50 billion through frozen Russian assets held in Western banks. Amidst escalating tensions, Russia issued threats of retaliation, signaling an escalation in hostilities and a surge in Moscow’s assertiveness.
The recent assault on Kharkiv serves as a stark reminder of the growing confidence within the Russian forces, seizing upon opportunities to advance their strategic advantage. Notably, the deployment of glide bombs in the attack showcases the destructive potential of these weapons, emphasizing their cost-effectiveness and devastating impact. President Zelensky revealed troubling statistics, with 3,000 similar bombs reportedly dropped on Ukraine in March alone, indicating the scale of the threat posed by such munitions.
In a recent report, the Centre for European Policy Analysis (CEPA) underscored the decisive role played by glide bombs in key military operations, including the capture of Avdiivka in February. As tensions escalate and violence intensifies, the urgent need for increased defense capabilities and international support becomes apparent, underscoring the critical juncture faced by Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression. The developments in Kharkiv serve as a grim reminder of the ongoing conflict’s human toll and the pressing need for swift and decisive action to ensure the safety and security of the Ukrainian population.