"Escalating Conflict: Russian Strikes Target Civilians and Mercenaries in Ukraine"

Russia claimed to have targeted a group of French mercenaries in a long-range strike on the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, injuring over a dozen civilians. Ukraine's foreign minister vowed to gain control over its skies in 2024 as Russia's assault enters its third year, with Kharkiv enduring persistent shelling since the large-scale hostilities began in 2022. The strikes caused significant damage to buildings and resulted in civilian casualties, prompting Ukraine to seek advanced fighter jets from the West to counter Russian forces.