About our Kharkiv news
Latest news on Kharkiv, providing comprehensive coverage of the city's ongoing struggles with Russian air strikes, recovery and rebuilding efforts, local events, cultural happenings, and other stories relevant to residents and those interested in this major Ukrainian city.
Kharkiv, the second-largest city in Ukraine with a population of over 1.3 million, continues to face intense Russian air strikes despite being more than two years into the war. Located just 30 km from the Russian border, Kharkiv has been one of the hardest-hit cities, with reports indicating nearly a quarter of it was destroyed by April 2024.
In April 2024, Russian attacks on Kharkiv intensified once again, with missiles targeting crucial infrastructure. The city's 240-metre television tower was hit by what local officials believe was a Russian Kh-59 cruise missile, causing the tower to break in half and collapse. The attack disrupted digital television signals but fortunately resulted in no casualties. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by residents as Russia continues its aerial assault.
Despite the relentless attacks, the people of Kharkiv remain resilient. Local authorities, international organisations, and volunteers work tirelessly to restore essential services, rebuild damaged buildings, and support affected residents. The city's determination to maintain its vibrant cultural life is evident in the reopening of underground classrooms in metro stations, allowing students to attend classes in person despite the closure of schools due to security concerns.
Kharkiv's history as a major industrial hub and former capital of Soviet Ukraine is reflected in its diverse architecture, from Baroque churches to iconic constructivist buildings. However, the war has taken a toll on the city's rich cultural heritage, with many historical sites and buildings damaged or destroyed by Russian strikes.
As the war rages on and the momentum shifts in Russia's favour, Kharkiv remains vulnerable due to a critical shortage of air defence systems. The city's proximity to the Russian border makes deploying high-value assets like Patriot surface-to-air missile systems more challenging. Despite urgent appeals from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, Western military support has dwindled, leaving Kharkiv increasingly exposed to Russian air strikes.
Our NewsNow feed delivers up-to-date, reliable coverage of Kharkiv's ongoing struggle, recovery efforts, and the impact of the war on the city's residents. As the situation evolves, staying informed is crucial to understanding the challenges faced by this resilient Ukrainian city and its people.