KHARKIV: Ukraine announced that at least 13 individuals were injured following a Russian drone assault on Kharkiv, the nation's second-largest city.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Ukrainian Prosecutor General's Office revealed on Telegram that the attack, which occurred late Wednesday, resulted in the injuries of 13 people, including two children. An investigation into the incident has been initiated. The strike targeted civilian infrastructure in the Slobidskyi and Kyivskyi districts of Kharkiv, lasting nearly an hour.

Ukraine's State Emergency Service noted that the assault triggered four fires in the city, situated approximately 30 kilometers from the Russian border. The largest blaze spanned an area of 2,500 square meters. A total of 117 personnel and 27 equipment units were deployed to manage the aftermath of the attack.

In a related development, Ukraine's Air Force reported that its air defenses successfully intercepted 42 out of 86 drones launched by Russia across the southern, northern, and central regions of the country.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, responding to the attack on X, criticized any discussions about easing pressure on Russia or lifting sanctions, labeling such talks as inappropriate. He urged for increased pressure on Russia to expedite diplomatic efforts and save lives, accusing Moscow of prolonging the conflict.

In a separate development, the US disclosed agreements with Russia and Ukraine on Tuesday to ensure safe navigation in the Black Sea and a temporary halt to strikes on each other's energy facilities, following discussions in Riyadh.