"Russia and Ukraine Escalate Strikes as Border City Retaliation Intensifies"

Russia has launched retaliatory air strikes on the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv and other regions after Ukraine's alleged attack on the Russian city of Belgorod, which resulted in at least 24 deaths. The escalation follows a period of intense aerial assaults by both nations, with Ukraine's air force reporting the destruction of 21 out of 49 Russian drones. Civilian areas, including residential buildings, hospitals, and a hotel in Kharkiv, were hit, injuring 28 people. The attacks on Ukraine, particularly in Kyiv, have been described as the deadliest civilian toll in the city to date. The UN Security Council discussed the situation, with several countries highlighting Russia's responsibility for the war and its consequences.