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Russia Escalates Kharkiv Attacks with Glide Bombs

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  Published in Science and Technology on Friday, January 23rd 2026 at 19:19 GMT by BBC
      Locales: UKRAINE, RUSSIAN FEDERATION

Kharkiv, Ukraine - January 24th, 2026 - Russia's renewed offensive has brought renewed terror and devastation to Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city. The escalation involves the increasingly frequent and destructive use of glide bombs, causing widespread damage to residential areas and resulting in civilian casualties. Reports confirm that infrastructure is also being targeted, deepening the humanitarian crisis amidst the harsh winter conditions.

The attacks, described by witnesses as relentless, are utilizing readily produced, low-cost glide bombs - essentially bombs retrofitted with wings to extend their range. These weapons, while not technologically advanced, are devastatingly effective due to their accuracy and ability to strike targets previously out of range of conventional artillery. The use of glide bombs allows Russian forces to inflict damage from a greater distance, minimizing risk to their own personnel while maximizing impact on Ukrainian cities.

BBC correspondent Chris Rennell, reporting live from the scene, painted a grim picture of collapsed buildings, shattered windows, and panicked residents struggling to cope with the ongoing bombardment. "The scale of the destruction is truly heartbreaking," Rennell reported, "We're seeing entire apartment blocks reduced to rubble, and the sound of emergency services trying to reach survivors is constant. The psychological impact on the civilian population is immense."

Ukrainian officials are condemning the attacks as deliberate targeting of civilians and vital infrastructure. The Ministry of Defence released a statement earlier today stating, "Russia's actions constitute a blatant violation of international law and demonstrate a callous disregard for human life. We are doing everything in our power to protect our citizens and mitigate the damage."

A Pattern of Escalation & Glide Bomb Proliferation

The resurgence of intense attacks on Kharkiv isn't entirely unexpected. While fighting has been ongoing in eastern Ukraine for years, this particular escalation is part of a larger pattern of Russia probing Ukrainian defenses and exploiting perceived weaknesses. The increasing reliance on glide bombs also reflects a shift in Russian tactics. Following earlier setbacks, Russia has prioritized readily available and easily produced weaponry, rather than investing in more sophisticated, but potentially limited, missile stockpiles.

The proliferation of this type of weaponry is also concerning. While initially conceived as a temporary solution, the effectiveness of glide bombs has led to their wider adoption by other nations, raising concerns about a potential global shift towards cheaper, but potentially less precise, air-delivered ordnance. Analysts suggest this could lower the threshold for conflict and increase the risk of civilian casualties in future conflicts.

Humanitarian Crisis & Evacuation Efforts

The ongoing attacks have exacerbated the already precarious humanitarian situation in Kharkiv. Winter temperatures are plummeting, and many residents have lost their homes and access to essential services like heating and electricity. Ukrainian rescue services, supported by international aid organizations, are struggling to reach all those in need. Evacuation efforts are underway, but hampered by the constant threat of further shelling.

"We're seeing families huddled in bomb shelters, children traumatized by the violence," reported a spokesperson for the Red Cross, who is currently working in Kharkiv. "The immediate priority is to provide food, water, and medical assistance, but the long-term recovery will require a massive and sustained international effort."

International Response & Future Prospects

The international community has condemned Russia's actions and pledged further support for Ukraine. However, the efficacy of sanctions and military aid in deterring Russian aggression remains a subject of debate. Some analysts believe that a more robust and coordinated international response is needed to effectively address the escalating conflict.

The situation in Kharkiv remains volatile and unpredictable. With winter still firmly in grip, and Russia demonstrating a willingness to escalate its attacks, the future for the city's residents hangs precariously in the balance. Further reports will be filed as the situation develops.