Russia’s morning strike on a Kharkiv high-rise kills two men and wounds 21

On the morning of August 9, 2026, Russian forces launched a strike on a residential high-rise in Kharkiv's Saltivka district, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to over 20 others. The explosion collapsed several upper floors, trapping residents inside. Firefighters and medics worked to rescue those trapped, with seven people brought down from the upper levels.

A second strike hit a neighboring building. Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, is located roughly 25-30 km from the Russian border and frequently experiences Russian attacks. Russian officials confirmed that a missile hit the high-rise, with additional strikes on nearby structures. The Kharkiv Oblast Military Administration reported the attack, while the State Emergency Service noted the rescue efforts and additional strikes in the area.

The injured included at least one five-year-old boy and several others suffered blast injuries, carbon monoxide poisoning, or acute stress reactions. As rescue and medical teams worked to clear the collapsed floors, Russia continued its attacks across the oblast, killing three more civilians and wounding or shocking 25 others.