Two people, including a three-year-old child, died in a Russian ballistic missile attack on Kharkiv, Ukraine, Friday. At least 31 others were wounded. The attack struck a five-story residential building in the city center.

The attack occurred on January 2, 2026, marking day 1,409 of the Russia-Ukraine war. Oleh Syniehubov, Kharkiv's governor, reported the casualties via Telegram. Russia's Ministry of Defence denied responsibility. They claimed Ukrainian ammunition detonation caused the explosion. Russia alleges the attack was a distraction from a prior strike.

The prior day, a drone strike hit a hotel and cafe in Khorly, a Russian-occupied area of Kherson. The death toll in Khorly rose to 28. Vladimir Saldo, the region's Russian-installed governor, reported over 60 injuries to TASS. Ukraine has not claimed responsibility for the Khorly strike.

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine began in February 2022. Fighting has continued intensely since then. Both sides continue to trade accusations of targeting civilians.

Investigations into both the Kharkiv and Khorly attacks are ongoing. International observers are likely to call for independent inquiries. Further retaliatory actions from both sides are expected.