Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of attacking civilians during New Year's celebrations. Moscow said a Ukrainian drone strike hit hotels and cafes in the Russian-controlled Kherson region of southern Ukraine, killing many people. Meanwhile, Kyiv said Russia launched a massive attack that damaged power supplies and critical infrastructure across Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stated that Russia deliberately escalated attacks during the holidays. He claimed that more than 200 attack drones were launched by Russia on New Year's Eve, targeting energy infrastructure in seven regions. He said these attacks demonstrate Ukraine's urgent need for air defense systems from allies as soon as possible.

Russia, on the other hand, accused Ukraine of committing "war crimes." Russian officials in the Kherson region said Ukrainian drones struck New Year's celebrations attended by civilians, killing at least 24 people and injuring dozens more. Russia called the attack deliberate and targeted civilians, a charge Ukraine denies.

The Ukrainian military insists it only attacked military and energy targets used to support Russian operations. Ukraine also reported that Russian attacks continued to kill civilians in cities near the front lines, including in the Ukrainian-controlled Kherson region. The attacks also reportedly damaged railway facilities in several areas.

These tensions come amid intensive talks overseen by US President Donald Trump to end the nearly four-year war. Both sides have accused each other of trying to influence Trump's views. Meanwhile, fighting and airstrikes continue, leaving peace efforts fraught with uncertainty. (az)

Source: Newsmaker.id