Overview
- Regional authorities report at least 24 people killed and more than 50 injured after three UAVs hit a cafe and a hotel in Khorkly during New Year celebrations.
- A major fire burned for over six hours, preventing entry to the site, and reconnaissance drones reportedly hindered rescuers from reaching victims.
- Russia’s Investigative Committee opened a criminal terrorism case in connection with the deaths of more than 20 civilians.
- Four victims were hospitalized in Crimea, two in serious condition, and officials said children were among the severely wounded.
- Religious and municipal bodies pledged support and issued condemnations, including the Russian Orthodox Church’s Skadovsk Eparchy and St. Petersburg’s governor, while a local resistance source alleged use of NATO‑made reconnaissance UAVs.