A pension distribution point in a village in eastern Ukraine was struck by a Russian airstrike, resulting in the deaths of 24 civilians, officials reported on Tuesday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged Kyiv’s allies to intensify pressure on Moscow to halt the ongoing conflict. The attack occurred in the village of Yarova, approximately 24 kilometers from Sloviansk, with casualties occurring among elderly individuals as pensions were being disbursed.
Zelenskyy emphasized the need for a global response to the tragedy, showcasing video footage of the aftermath. The State Emergency Service disclosed that 19 others were injured in addition to the fatalities. Zelenskyy appealed for action from the United States, Europe, and the G20, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Russia has not yet responded to Zelenskyy’s statements and has denied deliberate targeting of civilians. Despite ongoing diplomatic discussions, casualties have continued to mount since Russia’s invasion in February 2022. While efforts have been made by European leaders and allies like Canada to support Ukraine post-war, there has been a lack of progress in negotiations with Russia following a meeting between Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump.
Zelenskyy criticized the absence of stronger international sanctions on Russia, suggesting that Moscow interpreted this as a green light to persist with its military operations. Meanwhile, Russia’s Defence Ministry claimed that its defense systems intercepted and destroyed 31 Ukrainian drones, with 15 of them over the Black Sea. The reports have not been independently verified, and Ukraine has not yet responded to the allegations. Additionally, a man was reported dead in Sochi following a drone attack, resulting in damage to several houses in the area.