A devastating airstrike in the village of Yarova, located in eastern Ukraine, has resulted in the deaths of over 20 civilians. President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the attack via Telegram, sharing a distressing video that depicted the destruction and casualties in the village. He described the incident as a "frankly brutal Russian air bomb strike" that targeted ordinary people during a time when pensions were being distributed.

Zelensky expressed his condolences to the families of the victims, stating, "There are no words... Condolences to all the relatives and friends of the deceased." He emphasised the need for a global response to such attacks, urging that "Such strikes by Russia should definitely not remain without an appropriate reaction from the world." He called for strong actions from the United States, Europe, and the G20 to compel Russia to cease its violent actions.

This tragic event follows closely on the heels of another airstrike by Russian forces that struck a significant Ukrainian government building in Kyiv, resulting in the death of a two-month-old baby and three other individuals. Smoke was seen billowing from the roof of the Cabinet of Ministers building, although it was unclear whether the smoke was from a direct hit or debris. Tymur Tkachenko, head of Kyiv’s city administration, reported that rescuers had recovered the bodies from the rubble.

In response to the escalating violence, US President Donald Trump indicated his willingness to implement a new round of sanctions against Russia. The recent attacks mark a concerning intensification of Russia's air campaign in Ukraine, raising alarms about the safety of civilians caught in the conflict.