News|Russia-Ukraine warRussia claims Ukrainian drone attack killed 24 people in KhersonRussia says those killed were celebrating in a cafe located in an area of southern Ukraine controlled by Moscow.
## Conflict Update: Drone Attack in Kherson Region
Conflict Update: Drone Attack in Kherson Region
On Mon, Jan 1, 2026, Russian authorities accused Ukraine of executing a drone attack in the Kherson region, resulting in at least 24 casualties, including a child. The incident occurred in a hotel and cafe during New Year celebrations in a Russian-controlled area.
Vladimir Saldo, the Russian-appointed governor of Kherson, initially reported the event on Telegram. He claimed that three Ukrainian drones targeted the site in Khorly, a coastal village, classifying the attack as a deliberate strike on civilians. Saldo indicated that many victims were burned alive. The Russian Foreign Ministry confirmed that 24 individuals were killed, and 50 were injured, labeling the attack a "war crime."
Saldo released images purportedly showing the aftermath of the attack, including visible damage from a fire and bloodstains. Some photos depicted a body covered by a white sheet. These images have not been independently verified.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova attributed responsibility to Ukraine's Western allies. Senior Russian politicians criticized Kyiv’s actions, emphasizing the alleged premeditated nature of the attack.
The incident occurred in a hotel and cafe during New Year celebrations in a Russian-controlled area.
Ukraine's military did not address the Kherson incident but confirmed strikes on Russia’s Ilsky oil refinery in the Krasnodar region and the Almetyevsk oil facility in Tatarstan. The Almetyevsk facility is located over 965 km from the nearest Ukrainian territory.
Allegations of Attack on Russian Leadership
On Tue, Jan 2, 2026, Russia claimed Ukraine launched a drone attack on a residence of President Vladimir Putin. A video released by the Russian Defence Ministry showed a damaged drone. Verification of these claims and the video remains pending.
Ukraine has dismissed the allegations regarding Putin's residence as a distraction from ongoing peace talks. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that a peace agreement is "90 percent ready," with remaining issues involving critical territorial disputes. Negotiations continue with European and American involvement.
Recent Attacks on Ukrainian Infrastructure
In the Odesa region, Russian forces targeted civilian infrastructure with multiple drone attacks. Regional authorities reported damage to residential buildings, with no casualties confirmed. Ukrainian air defense reported intercepting 176 out of 205 drones.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
