Kharkiv Under Attack: Shahed Drone Strikes Target Civilian Areas

Kharkiv, Ukraine, continues to face relentless attacks from Russian forces, with recent strikes utilizing Shahed drones targeting civilian infrastructure. Reports indicate damage to residential buildings and a medical facility, resulting in casualties and ongoing emergency response efforts.

Recent Attacks and Damage

On February 23, 2026, multiple explosions were reported in Kharkiv, with attacks concentrated in the Kholodnohirskyi and Osnovyanskyi districts. According to Kharkiv Mayor Igor Terekhov, the city was attacked with missiles, and a Shahed drone struck a multi-story building in the central part of the city, causing a fire on one of the floors. Ukraine Today

Earlier attacks, documented on June 5, 2024, involved Shahed drones directly targeting civilian high-rise buildings. Terekhov shared video footage of the destruction on Telegram, describing the attacks as targeting “peaceful Kharkiv residents.” NV.ua

A separate incident on February 28, 2025, saw a Shahed drone strike a medical facility in Kharkiv, igniting a fire. Rescuers were dispatched to extinguish the blaze. UNN

a strike on December 12, 2024, hit residential buildings in the Industrial area of Kharkiv. Baltimore Chronicle

Casualties and Emergency Response

As of February 23, 2026, reports indicate at least two people were injured in the morning attacks, including a 55-year-old man and a 70-year-old woman experiencing acute stress. NV.ua

The June 5, 2024 attack resulted in 17 reported victims, including four children. NV.ua

In a separate incident on February 28, 2025, a civilian died in the Kharkiv region after being struck by a drone. UNN

Broader Regional Impact

Over the past week, the Kharkiv region has been subjected to over 140 attacks involving UAVs, missiles, and spacecraft, impacting 48 settlements. Three people have been killed and 17 injured as a result of these strikes. NV.ua