Ankara: The death toll from a drone strike on a college building and dormitory in Starobilsk, located in Ukraine's Russian-controlled Luhansk region, has increased to 18, as confirmed by the Russian Emergency Situations Ministry. The incident, which occurred at the Luhansk Pedagogical University, also left 60 individuals injured, with three people still trapped under the debris.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Russian Emergency Situations Ministry released a statement on the Russian social media platform Max, detailing the tragic event. Leonid Pasechnik, the Russia-installed head of the region, stated that emergency services are actively working at the site, providing necessary assistance, including psychological support for those affected. Pasechnik expressed his deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased, emphasizing the collective grief felt by the region.

On Friday, Russia accused Ukraine of orchestrating the attack on the academic building and dormitory of Starobilsk College at Luhansk State Pedagogical University. Russia has initiated a criminal investigation on terrorism charges, labeling the incident as a "monstrous crime." Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned the strike and instructed the Defense Ministry to prepare proposals for a potential response.

Ukraine, however, has denied Russia's allegations, asserting that its forces focus only on military infrastructure and facilities used for military purposes. Kyiv emphasized its commitment to international humanitarian law and accused Russian media of disseminating false information regarding the incident in the occupied territory of Ukraine.