Russia Accuses Ukraine of Killing 24 Civilians in New Year Drone Attack | January 2026

Russia Accuses Ukraine of Killing 24 People in New Year Drone Strike

Moscow / Kherson | January 1, 2026 — Russia has accused Ukraine of killing at least 24 civilians and injuring more than 50 others in a drone attack during New Year’s celebrations in the town of Kherson. The attack reportedly targeted a hotel and a café where civilians were gathered to celebrate the holiday.

According to Vladimir Saldo, the Russian-installed governor of Kherson, three drones were used in the strike, one of which reportedly carried explosive materials, causing severe fires and widespread damage. The governor described the attack as a deliberate targeting of civilians.

Russian authorities stated that among the dead were children and women, while at least 50 people were injured. The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack as a terrorist act against civilians and held countries supporting Ukraine partially accountable.

So far, the Ukrainian government has not officially commented on the incident. Governor Saldo released images allegedly showing burned buildings, bloodstains, and corpses, but independent verification of these claims has not yet been possible.

This attack comes as the Russia-Ukraine conflict enters its fourth year, with both sides engaged on multiple fronts. Analysts note that the increased use of drones in the conflict has put civilian areas at significant risk.

According to Russian reports, emergency services immediately responded to the scene, evacuating the injured to hospitals. A notable number of the wounded were children and women, who received urgent medical attention.

Experts caution that independent verification of such claims is difficult due to limited access for media and reporters in Russian-controlled areas. Multiple sources warn that some reports may reflect wartime propaganda, as both sides have previously accused each other of spreading misleading information.

The attack has also created obstacles for ongoing diplomatic efforts, as Ukraine had been pursuing international peace initiatives. Such incidents, however, have contributed to a decline in trust between the two parties.

The international community has expressed concern over civilian casualties and called for thorough investigations to establish the facts. The identities of the responsible parties remain uncertain, with both sides continuing to blame each other amid the ongoing war.

Overall, the New Year drone strike highlights the continued humanitarian risks for civilians in conflict zones and raises urgent questions about accountability, the use of drones, and the safety of non-combatants.