​Russia hits playground, high-rise in Ukraine's Kharkiv, kills six

A Russian-guided bomb struck a residential building and playground in Kharkiv, Ukraine, killing at least six people, including a child. Over 28 others were injured in the attack, with some in severe condition. (AFP image)

The bomb hit a 12-storey apartment block, causing a massive fire. Kharkiv's mayor, Ihor Terekhov, confirmed that a child was killed on the playground during the attack. Three people were killed inside the apartment block, while others suffered injuries in nearby areas. (AFP image)

Rescue teams and volunteers quickly responded to the scene, pulling survivors from the burning building. Some victims, covered in blood, were attended to by medics outside. (Reuters image)

One end of the apartment block was severely damaged, with flames and smoke visible. The body of one victim lay under a carpet, surrounded by police, highlighting the attack's tragic impact. Ukrainian authorities reported that the attack involved five aerial guided bombs, also known as glide bombs.(Reuters image)

Despite the mounting civilian casualties, Russia continues to deny deliberately targeting civilians. The ongoing conflict, which began in 2022, has resulted in thousands of deaths and widespread destruction in Ukraine. (AFP image)

The attack comes amid ongoing Russian bombing in Kharkiv, which has intensified following a Ukrainian incursion into Russia's Kursk region. The bomb used in the attack was launched from Russia’s Belgorod region. (Reuters image)

Zelenskyy emphasised that targeting Russian planes at their bases would be more effective than trying to intercept bombs in the air. He urged Western allies to lift restrictions on Ukraine's defense capabilities. (AFP image)