Russia has accused Ukraine of launching a deadly drone attack on a market in the Russian-occupied town of Oleshky in southern Ukraine, claiming at least seven civilians were killed and more than 20 injured. Ukraine has rejected the allegation, saying only Russian military personnel were targeted.
The incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. on a public holiday. Vladimir Saldo, the Russian-installed governor of the Kherson region, released footage reportedly showing the aftermath, including explosions and bodies on the ground. Reuters verified the location but could not confirm the time or identities of the victims.
Saldo claimed rescuers came under renewed attack during evacuation efforts. Russia’s Foreign Ministry condemned the strike as a terrorist act and called for international condemnation, labeling it a “war crime.” Local official Sergei Cherevko stated around 30 drones struck in four waves and accused Ukraine of using cluster munitions near ambulances. He reported two deaths—conflicting with other Russian figures.
A Ukrainian military spokesperson said the strike targeted occupying Russian forces and did not harm civilians.
In a separate incident, Russian authorities in Donetsk reported one death and eight injuries due to mishandling explosives after Ukrainian shelling.
Both Russia and Ukraine have regularly traded accusations of civilian attacks during the war, now in its fourth year. While Russia insists it targets military assets, Ukrainian cities have suffered heavy civilian casualties from recent Russian missile strikes.
Amid the ongoing conflict, Ukraine has proposed a 30-day ceasefire to pave the way for peace talks. Although Russia has not agreed, President Vladimir Putin announced a three-day unilateral ceasefire and expressed openness to direct negotiations.