ALBAWABA- At least 24 people were killed and more than 50 injured in a Ukrainian drone strike targeting a café and hotel in the coastal village of Khorly in Ukraine’s southern Kherson region during New Year’s Eve celebrations, according to Russian authorities.
Vladimir Saldo, the Moscow-appointed governor of the partially occupied region, said that the attack occurred shortly before midnight and followed an initial reconnaissance phase, with multiple drones striking the venue and triggering fires as people gathered to mark the New Year. Emergency crews responded overnight, and several of the wounded remain in serious condition, he added.
Ukraine has not commented on the incident, consistent with its long-standing policy of not confirming or denying specific operations in Russian-held territory.
Khorly lies on the Black Sea coast in an area controlled by Russian forces since their withdrawal from the city of Kherson in late 2022. The wider Kherson region has remained a key frontline since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and Moscow’s subsequent, internationally unrecognized annexation claims.
❗️ 24 people including a child killed in a Ukrainian drone attack on New Year's celebrations in Kherson region
— RT (@RT_com) January 1, 2026
Three UAVs struck a cafe and hotel crowded with civilians, injuring over 50 others
Russian authorities report one of the drones was loaded with an incendiary mixture
The reported strike highlights Ukraine’s growing reliance on long-range drone capabilities to target Russian positions, logistics, and gathering points in occupied areas, as both sides intensify aerial attacks amid stalled diplomatic efforts.
The incident comes against the backdrop of heightened tensions following Russia’s claim on December 29 that it intercepted dozens of Ukrainian drones, including one allegedly aimed near President Vladimir Putin’s residence, an allegation Kyiv dismissed as fabricated. Russian officials have since warned of retaliation, raising fears of further escalation.
With U.S.-brokered peace talks showing limited progress, the war continues to be shaped by reciprocal drone strikes and military pressure, increasing the risk of civilian casualties and further undermining prospects for de-escalation.
