Russia hits Kharkiv with ballistic missile, as Trump presses Ukraine to accept peace deal
theglobeandmail.com -- Sunday, August 17, 2025, 7:23:02 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–Russia Relations, State Politics & Governors, U.S.–NATO Relations
Russia hit a residential area in Kharkiv with a ballistic missile, injuring at least 11 people, Ukrainian authorities said late on Sunday, as the U.S. president presses Kyiv to accept a quick deal to end the war that Moscow had started.
Among the injured in Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, was a 13-year-old girl, Oleh Synehubov, governor of the broader Kharkiv region said on the Telegram messaging app.
Kharkiv, which lies in northeastern Ukraine near the border with Russia, has been the target of regular Russian drone and missile attacks since the start of the war that Moscow launched with a full-scale invasion in February, 2022.
"The blast wave shattered windows in nearby apartment buildings," Ukraine's State Emergency Service said on Telegram. It added that some residents had to be evacuated.
Reuters' witnesses saw medics attending to residents on a street and rescuers inspecting damage in residential buildings.
Putin agreed to let U.S., Europe offer Ukraine NATO-style security guarantees, Trump envoy says
A 57-year-old woman was injured in Russia's guided aerial bomb strike on the northeastern region of Sumy that also damaged at least a dozen residential houses and an educational institution building, regional authorities said.
"The enemy continues to deliberately target civilian infrastructure in the Sumy region - treacherously, at night," Oleh Hryhorov, head of the regional administration in Sumy, said on Telegram.
Reuters could not independently verify what weapons Russia used. There was no immediate comment from Moscow. Both sides deny targeting civilians in their strikes, but thousands of people have died, the vast majority of them Ukrainian.
President Donald Trump, who hosted President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday for bilateral talks aimed at ending the war, has urged Kyiv to make a deal with Moscow, stating, "Russia is a very big power, and they're not."
Sign Our PetitionThe recent missile strikes in Kharkiv, which left at least 11 people injured, underscore the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe that continues to unfold in Ukraine amidst the Russian invasion. This incident, a stark reminder of the war’s toll on civilians, reflects the deeper dynamics of international conflict and the often troubling role that political leaders play in shaping outcomes. The call for a peace deal, as articulated by former President Donald Trump, raises critical questions not only about the validity of such a proposal but also about the implications for Ukraine's sovereignty and the moral responsibilities of global powers in times of war.
Historically, the targeting of civilian infrastructure has been a hallmark of warfare, with devastating consequences for innocent populations. The current situation in Ukraine is reminiscent of past conflicts where civilian lives were sacrificed on the altar of political expediency. The Geneva Conventions, which set the standards for international humanitarian law, emphasize the protection of civilians in war. Yet, the reality on the ground suggests a troubling disregard for these norms, as evidenced by regular attacks on residential areas in Kharkiv and Sumy. The repeated strikes on civilian targets call into question the narratives put forth by both Russia and Ukraine, who both deny intentionally targeting civilians, yet the evidence points to a grim reality that civilians are suffering the brunt of this conflict.
The push for a peace deal, particularly one that might prioritize expediency over principle, can lead to dangerous precedents. Trump's statement that "Russia is a very big power" can be interpreted as a troubling acknowledgment of military might over moral authority, potentially emboldening aggressors and undermining the principles of international law. History has shown that appeasing aggressors often leads to further violence and conflict rather than lasting peace. For instance, the Munich Agreement of 1938, which sought to placate Nazi Germany by allowing the annexation of parts of Czechoslovakia, ultimately failed to prevent the outbreak of World War II. A similar approach today could risk legitimizing Russia's aggressive actions and set a precedent that undermines international norms of sovereignty and self-determination.
Moreover, the humanitarian implications of a rushed peace deal cannot be overstated. The ongoing war has already resulted in the loss of thousands of lives, the majority of whom are Ukrainian civilians. Any agreement that does not prioritize the needs and voices of the Ukrainian people risks perpetuating a cycle of violence and suffering. The international community, particularly Western nations, must consider the lessons of history and the importance of supporting nations defending their sovereignty against aggression. A peace deal that does not take into account the aspirations of the Ukrainian people for self-determination and security could further entrench divisions and prolong the suffering of those caught in the crossfire.
As this conflict continues to evolve, it is essential to recognize the broader implications for global geopolitics. The war in Ukraine is not just a regional issue but a critical battleground for international norms and the principles of self-determination and collective security. The lessons from Ukraine resonate globally, reminding us of the importance of solidarity with nations resisting oppression. In conversations about the future of Ukraine, it is crucial to prioritize the voices of those directly impacted by the conflict and to advocate for a resolution that respects their rights and sovereignty. The need for a just and lasting peace should be at the forefront of discussions, rather than a hurried deal that favors the interests of powerful states at the expense of the Ukrainian people.
The escalation of violence in Ukraine, particularly with the recent missile strikes in Kharkiv, underscores the urgent need to reassess our foreign policy and the implications of negotiating with aggressors. As reported, Kharkiv, a city that has endured the brunt of Russian military aggression, is once again the target of indiscriminate attacks that injure innocents, including children. The news of civilian casualties, such as the young girl injured in this latest assault, signals not only the brutality of the conflict but also highlights the moral imperative for a more principled stance against tyranny. The historical context of Ukraine's struggle for sovereignty against Russian dominance goes back decades, but it has intensified since the annexation of Crimea in 2014, showcasing Russia's expansionist agenda. The international community must recognize that appeasing a bully rarely leads to peace; it more often emboldens further aggression.
The remarks from former President Donald Trump, advocating for a swift peace deal with Russia, raise significant ethical questions about the nature of negotiations with a regime that has repeatedly violated international norms and human rights. Trump's assertion that "Russia is a very big power" reflects a dangerous acceptance of power dynamics that prioritize national interests over the rights and lives of Ukrainian citizens. This perspective feeds into a broader narrative that views diplomacy as a concession rather than as a framework for establishing justice and ensuring accountability. For many in the United States, it is crucial to challenge this narrative by emphasizing that supporting Ukraine's autonomy is not merely a geopolitical strategy, but a stand for democracy and human rights.
As Americans, we have several avenues for action to support Ukraine and advocate for a more just approach to international relations. One immediate step is to mobilize grassroots campaigns that call on elected officials to provide robust support for Ukraine in the form of military aid, humanitarian assistance, and economic sanctions against Russia. This can take the form of letter-writing campaigns, organized meetings with representatives, and public demonstrations that emphasize the importance of standing firm against autocracy. By demonstrating public support, we can create an environment that empowers our leaders to take decisive actions that align with democratic values rather than succumbing to isolationist tendencies.
Moreover, we can educate ourselves and our communities about the historical complexities of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, fostering a deeper understanding of the stakes involved. This involves not only keeping abreast of current events but also exploring historical precedents of aggression and the consequences of failed diplomacy. Understanding the nuances of this conflict equips us to engage in informed discussions with those who hold opposing views, allowing us to counter arguments that seek to diminish Ukraine's sovereignty or downplay the severity of Russian aggression. By framing our discussions within the context of democracy versus tyranny, we can help clarify the stakes involved in this conflict.
Additionally, it is vital to elevate the voices of Ukrainians who are directly affected by this war. Amplifying their stories through social media, local events, and community discussions can help personalize the conflict and foster empathy among those who may be indifferent or misinformed. By sharing firsthand accounts of survival, resilience, and the impact of military aggression, we can create a narrative that counters the simplistic rhetoric often employed in political discourse. Ultimately, the goal is to foster a collective understanding that prioritizes peace and justice, ensuring that we do not allow the ongoing violence in Ukraine to fade into the background of global concerns. Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, we can work towards a future where sovereignty and human rights are upheld, rejecting the notion that power dynamics dictate the course of justice.
In light of the recent news regarding the escalating conflict in Ukraine and the troubling missile attacks on civilian areas, there are several actions that individuals can take to advocate for peace, support the victims of the conflict, and influence policymakers. Below is a detailed list of ideas and actions that can be pursued:
### What Can We Personally Do About This?
1. **Educate Yourself and Others**: Understanding the complexities of the Ukraine conflict is crucial. Share articles, books, and reliable news sources with your network to raise awareness about the situation and its implications for global peace.
2. **Support Humanitarian Aid**: Contribute to organizations that provide humanitarian relief to those affected by the conflict. This can include financial donations or collecting supplies to send to Ukraine.
3. **Engage in Advocacy**: Advocate for policies that support Ukraine and promote diplomatic resolutions to the conflict. Mobilizing your community can amplify your voice.
4. **Contact Your Representatives**: Reach out to your local and national representatives to express your views on the necessity of supporting Ukraine against aggression and the importance of protecting civilian lives.
### Exact Actions We Can Personally Take
1. **Sign and Share Petitions**: - **Petition for Humanitarian Aid**: Support organizations like *Change.org* or *MoveOn.org* which often have petitions advocating for increased humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. - **Petition for Peace Initiatives**: Search for petitions urging government representatives to prioritize peace negotiations that respect Ukraine's sovereignty.
2. **Contact Key Representatives**: - **Your Local Congressperson**: Find your local representative and express your concerns regarding U.S. foreign policy in Ukraine. Use resources like [govtrack.us](https://www.govtrack.us/) to find contact details. - Example: - **Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez** - Email: ocasoio-cortez.house.gov/contact - Office Address: 1238 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515 - **Senators**: Urge your state senators to support robust measures against aggression and increased aid for Ukraine. - Example: - **Sen. Chuck Schumer** - Email: schumer.senate.gov/contact/email-chuck - Office Address: 322 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510
3. **Attend Local Rallies and Events**: Look for local gatherings focused on Ukraine, peace advocacy, or anti-war movements. These events often provide platforms for collective action and networking with like-minded individuals.
4. **Write Letters to the Editor**: Use your local newspapers to voice your opinions. Write letters emphasizing the need for humanitarian support for Ukraine and the importance of diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.
### What to Say
When reaching out or advocating, consider the following points:
- **Express Solidarity**: Emphasize the need for solidarity with Ukraine and the importance of supporting civilians affected by the conflict. - **Call for Humanitarian Support**: Advocate for increased humanitarian aid and support for refugee programs, highlighting the urgent needs of those affected by the ongoing violence.
- **Urge Diplomatic Solutions**: Encourage your representatives to pursue diplomatic avenues that prioritize peace and address the root causes of the conflict.
- **Highlight the Human Cost**: Remind them of the tragic toll the conflict has on innocent lives, especially women and children, and the responsibility of the international community to act.
By taking these steps, individuals can contribute to a more informed and engaged public response to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. Every action counts, and collective efforts can lead to meaningful change.