Russia strikes Kharkiv with ballistic missile, injures 11, Ukraine says
theprint.in -- Sunday, August 17, 2025, 8:20:09 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–Russia Relations

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.
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."
(Additional reporting by Bogdan Kobuchey in Kyiv and Lidia Kelly in Melbourne, Writing by Lidia Kelly in Melbourne; editing by Diane Craft)
Sign Our PetitionThe recent missile strikes on Kharkiv and the Sumy region exemplify the continued brutality of the conflict in Ukraine, a situation that has persisted since Russia's full-scale invasion began in February 2022. These attacks are not isolated incidents; they are part of a broader pattern of aggression that reflects Russia's imperial ambitions and disregard for international norms. The targeting of civilian infrastructure—schools, residential buildings, and hospitals—demonstrates a deliberate strategy to inflict suffering on the Ukrainian population, a tactic historically associated with totalitarian regimes seeking to demoralize their opponents. This violence brings to light not only the immediate humanitarian crisis faced by the Ukrainian people but also raises questions about the role of international diplomacy and accountability in preventing war crimes.
The ongoing conflict can be traced back to a complex tapestry of historical grievances, geopolitical maneuvering, and the legacy of the Soviet Union's dissolution. In 1991, when Ukraine gained independence, it navigated a path between Western aspirations and Russian influence, a balancing act that became increasingly precarious as NATO expanded eastward. Russia’s aggression is often framed as a reaction to perceived encroachments by Western powers, yet it is essential to recognize that the roots of the current crisis lie in a long history of imperialism and national identity struggles. For many Ukrainians, the desire for sovereignty and self-determination is intertwined with their historical experiences of oppression, particularly under both Tsarist and Soviet rule. As we witness the suffering inflicted by Russia’s military campaign, it is critical to understand this context in order to fully appreciate the stakes involved.
Moreover, the ongoing war in Ukraine must be viewed through the lens of broader social struggles, including those related to democracy, human rights, and global solidarity. The Ukrainian people, despite facing overwhelming odds, have demonstrated remarkable resilience and unity in their fight for freedom and self-determination. This struggle resonates deeply with historic movements for liberation and justice around the world, as it confronts not only an external aggressor but also internal divisions that can arise in times of conflict. The plight of the Ukrainian citizens can serve as a powerful reminder of the fragility of democratic institutions and the need for collective action against authoritarianism, whether it manifests in the form of foreign invasion or domestic oppression.
The responses from global leaders, such as former President Donald Trump’s call for Ukraine to negotiate with Moscow, highlight the complexities of political discourse surrounding this conflict. While diplomacy is vital, it is essential to consider the power dynamics at play. Pressuring a nation under siege to concede to its aggressor risks normalizing violent coercion as a legitimate means of resolving disputes. History has shown that appeasement often emboldens aggressors rather than fostering peace. Instead, international solidarity with Ukraine must focus on strengthening its capacity to defend itself while holding accountable those responsible for war crimes and violations of international law. The global community has a responsibility not only to condemn acts of violence but also to support the establishment of justice mechanisms that can address the suffering of those impacted by the conflict.
Finally, the situation in Ukraine demands a robust and informed public discourse that transcends partisan lines. Engaging in an honest examination of the implications of military intervention, foreign policy, and humanitarian assistance is crucial for fostering a more informed citizenry. Advocates for peace and justice can draw on this moment to reflect on historical precedents, such as the failed policies of appeasement in the 1930s, and to emphasize the necessity of a principled stance against tyranny. By fostering conversations that link the struggles of Ukrainians to broader themes of justice, democracy, and human rights, individuals can create a more profound understanding of the importance of standing against oppression in all its forms. This dialogue is essential not only for shaping effective policy but also for reinforcing the moral imperative of global solidarity in the face of rising authoritarianism.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, particularly the recent missile strikes in Kharkiv and Sumy, underscores the tragic consequences of war, especially for civilian populations. The Russian government’s indiscriminate targeting of urban centers has not only resulted in injuries and loss of life but has also caused significant damage to essential infrastructure. This systematic approach to warfare raises fundamental questions about international law, human rights, and the responsibilities of global powers in addressing aggression. Historically, such tactics have been seen in conflicts where one party seeks to instill fear and exert control over a population by undermining their sense of security.
The targeting of civilian areas brings to light the broader implications of Russia's actions, which echo historical patterns seen in other military engagements where civilian populations are caught in the crossfire. This is reminiscent of the bombings in World War II, where cities became primary targets to disrupt the enemy's morale and infrastructure. Such comparisons are not merely academic; they highlight the persistent nature of war and the moral dilemmas surrounding civilian casualties. As Americans, it is crucial to recognize that these attacks not only violate international norms but also threaten global stability. A world where civilian life is expendable for military gain is a world that we must actively resist.
In the context of American foreign policy, the current situation in Ukraine presents an opportunity to advocate for a stronger international response. Historically, the U.S. has been a leader in promoting human rights and upholding international law. The recent comments by former President Trump, suggesting that Ukraine should capitulate to Russia, reflect a troubling trend of appeasement that undermines not only Ukrainian sovereignty but also the principles upon which international order is built. As citizens, we have the power to demand that our leaders take a stand against such rhetoric by advocating for policies that support Ukraine through humanitarian aid, military assistance, and diplomatic engagement designed to bring about a just resolution to the conflict.
Furthermore, public awareness and education about the realities of war are essential. Many Americans may not fully grasp the scope of the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Ukraine, nor the implications of such actions on the global stage. By amplifying voices from within Ukraine, sharing personal stories of those affected, and disseminating accurate information about the conflict, we can cultivate a more informed and compassionate citizenry. Grassroots movements can play a pivotal role in fostering this awareness, encouraging community discussions, and utilizing social media to reach broader audiences.
Lastly, it is imperative that we engage with those who hold opposing views, particularly those sympathetic to Russian narratives. Constructive dialogue can be challenging, yet it is necessary to challenge misinformation and promote an understanding of the complexities of the conflict. By grounding discussions in historical contexts, legal frameworks, and the human cost of war, we can foster a more nuanced conversation. In doing so, we can advocate for policies that not only support Ukraine but also reinforce the importance of protecting civilian lives and upholding international norms. The path to peace may be fraught with challenges, but through informed action and persistent advocacy, we can contribute to a future that prioritizes justice, accountability, and the dignity of all people.
In light of the recent missile strikes in Kharkiv and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, it’s vital for individuals to take action in support of those affected by the conflict. Here’s a detailed list of ideas and actions that can be taken:
### What Can We Personally Do About This?
1. **Raise Awareness**: Share information about the conflict on social media platforms to inform others and create a larger dialogue about the humanitarian impact.
2. **Support Humanitarian Organizations**: Contribute to organizations providing aid to Ukraine, such as the Red Cross, Doctors Without Borders, and local Ukrainian relief funds.
3. **Contact Your Representatives**: Urge elected officials to take a stance on the situation, support humanitarian efforts, and advocate for peace.
4. **Participate in Local Events**: Attend rallies, vigils, or community discussions about the situation in Ukraine to show solidarity and raise awareness.
5. **Educate Yourself and Others**: Read articles, watch documentaries, and engage in discussions to better understand the geopolitical context of the conflict.
### Exact Actions We Can Personally Take
1. **Sign Petitions**: - **Petition for Humanitarian Aid**: You can sign petitions that call for increased humanitarian aid to Ukraine. A notable platform is Change.org where you can find specific petitions related to Ukraine's crisis. - **Example Petition**: "Send More Humanitarian Aid to Ukraine" on Change.org.
2. **Contact Elected Officials**: - **Write to Your Senators and Representatives**: - **Example**: - **Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY)**: - Email: schumer.senate.gov/contact/email-chuck - Mailing Address: 322 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510 - **Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY)**: - Email: ocasio-cortez.house.gov/contact - Mailing Address: 1651 E Main St Suite 208, New York, NY 10472
- **What to Say**: - Express your concern about the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine and urge them to support legislation that increases humanitarian aid and diplomatic efforts for peace. - Example message: “As your constituent, I urge you to prioritize humanitarian assistance for Ukraine and advocate for peace negotiations to protect innocent lives.”
3. **Donations**: - Donate to organizations such as: - **World Central Kitchen**: Provides meals to refugees and those affected by the war. - **Ukrainian Red Cross**: Directly supports victims of the conflict.
4. **Attend or Organize Local Events**: - Participate in or organize vigils or fundraisers to support Ukraine. - Partner with local community centers or universities to host discussions or informational sessions about the crisis.
5. **Engage with Media**: - Write letters to the editor of local newspapers expressing your views on the situation and the importance of supporting Ukraine.
6. **Use Social Media**: - Use hashtags like #StandWithUkraine, #UkraineUnderAttack, and #HumanityForUkraine to spread awareness and encourage conversations about the ongoing situation.
By taking these actions, individuals can contribute to a collective response that supports those affected by the conflict and advocates for peace and humanitarian efforts. Each of these steps plays a role in amplifying the call for justice and aid for the people of Ukraine.