Russia claims Ukrainian drone attack killed 24 people in Kherson

Al JazeeraEN 4 min read 100% complete by Al JazeeraJanuary 1, 2026 at 02:59 PM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

On January 1, 2026, Russia accused Ukraine of a drone attack that killed at least 24 people, including a child, in the Russian-controlled Kherson region of Ukraine. The alleged attack targeted a hotel and cafe in the village of Khorly, where New Year celebrations were reportedly taking place. Russian-installed regional governor Vladimir Saldo claimed three Ukrainian drones deliberately struck the site, causing a fire and resulting in numerous casualties. Russian officials condemned the attack as a "war crime" and blamed Ukraine's Western backers. Photos released by Saldo showed a destroyed building and what appeared to be bloodstains, but Al Jazeera has not been able to verify the claims.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Telegram ×230% Maria Zakharova 40% Khorly ×260% Russian Foreign Ministry ×260% Vladimir Saldo ×270% Kherson region ×380% Russia ×890% Ukraine ×790%

Keywords

drone attack 100% kherson region 80% ukraine 70% russia 70% civilian casualties 60% new year celebrations 60% russian-controlled area 50% war crime 50% khorly village 40%