Russian-installed authorities in occupied Kherson have alleged that Ukrainian forces conducted a deadly drone strike on a civilian New Year’s celebration, resulting in significant casualties. According to Vladimir Saldo, the Moscow-appointed regional governor, three unmanned aerial vehicles targeted a coastal cafe and hotel in the village of Khorly, killing at least 27 people and injuring over 30 others.
Russian state media circulated photographs showing extensive structural damage to a three-story building identified as the former ‘Ukrainian House,’ now operating as ‘Buganova’s Cafe.’ One image depicted what appeared to be a body covered by a sheet beneath collapsed roofing materials.
Ukrainian officials declined to directly address the specific allegations but maintained their adherence to international humanitarian law. A defense forces source quoted by AFP confirmed a military strike occurred but asserted it targeted a closed military gathering rather than civilian facilities.
The United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine acknowledged awareness of the incident and committed to verifying reports of civilian harm in future documentation.
This incident occurs amid heightened tensions following recent mutual accusations of provocative actions. Russia’s Investigative Committee has launched a formal probe into the attack, while the foreign ministry accused President Zelensky of attempting to intimidate populations in annexed territories.
The diplomatic context remains complex, with Zelensky recently suggesting a US-brokered agreement with Russia was ‘90% ready’ in his New Year address. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s foreign intelligence service has counter-accused Russia of preparing large-scale provocations with human casualties to undermine peace negotiations.