Russian Strikes Set Kharkiv Market Ablaze, Injure Dozens Across City

On October 1, Russian forces launched a combined strike on Kharkiv, Ukraine, targeting the Kyivskyi and Saltivskyi districts with guided aerial bombs and ballistic missiles. The attacks caused extensive damage including large fires at the Barabashovo market, Ukraine's largest industrial market, destroyed private homes, garages, and damaged apartment buildings and infrastructure. The strikes resulted in multiple injuries, with reports varying from four to eight people wounded, many hospitalized with shrapnel wounds. Emergency services including firefighters, rescuers, and psychologists are actively working to contain fires and assist the affected population. The assaults have significantly impacted critical commercial and residential areas, demonstrating ongoing hostilities and the severe humanitarian toll on Kharkiv. Authorities continue to assess the full extent of the destruction and casualties as rescue efforts proceed.