Russia Reports Deadly Drone Strike in Kherson Region, Blames Ukraine

Russia Reports Deadly Drone Strike in Kherson Region, Blames Ukraine
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Russia said on Thursday that at least 24 people were killed and more than 50 injured in a Ukrainian drone attack on a café and hotel in a Moscow-controlled area of the Kherson region, according to local authorities, as reported by Anadolu Agency. The incident allegedly occurred during New Year celebrations.

Vladimir Saldo, the Russia-appointed head of the Kherson region, said the strike took place around midnight in the coastal area of Chorly. He said three drones hit the site, triggering a fire that was later extinguished, and added that doctors were treating dozens of wounded victims.

Saldo accused British intelligence services of supporting the attack, an allegation for which no evidence was provided. He announced that Jan. 2 and 3 would be observed as days of mourning in the region. Ukraine has not commented on the claims, which cannot be independently verified.

Russia’s Foreign Ministry condemned the incident and said investigators had opened a criminal case under terrorism laws. It accused Ukraine and its Western supporters of responsibility, calling for international condemnation. The ministry said Ukrainian drone attacks occur regularly, while Kyiv has yet to respond.