Video on social networks showed that the Kharkiv television tower was destroyed and fell to the ground after a Russian missile attack.
Kharkiv, Ukraine – April 22, 2024
In a move seen as an attack on Ukraine’s media infrastructure and the morale of its people, Russia has launched a missile strike that destroyed Kharkiv’s tallest TV tower, a symbol of the city and the local resistance.
Destruction by ‘Russian missile’
The Kharkiv TV tower, which stood at 360 meters (1,181 feet), was the tallest structure in Ukraine outside of the capital Kyiv. It had been heavily damaged in previous Russian shelling, but the latest attack completely destroyed the upper part of the tower, causing it to collapse onto the surrounding area.
According to Ukrainian officials, the attack killed at least one person and injured several others. It also caused significant damage to nearby buildings and infrastructure.
Russia’s aims
It is still unclear what the precise aim of the attack was, but analysts believe that Russia may have targeted the TV tower in order to disrupt Ukrainian television and radio broadcasts, as well as to inflict psychological damage on the Ukrainian people.
The Kharkiv TV tower had been broadcasting important Ukrainian television and radio programs, including news and information about the war. Destroying the tower could make it more difficult for Ukrainians to access information and could dampen their spirits.
Ukrainian resilience
Despite the devastation, the people of Kharkiv remain committed to defending their city. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on the international community to condemn the attack and to step up military aid to Ukraine.
“They will never break our spirit,” Zelenskyy said. “We will continue to fight for our freedom and independence.”
The attack’s aftermath
The attack on the Kharkiv TV tower is a tragic reminder of the brutality of the war in Ukraine. It is also a symbol of the determination of the Ukrainian people to defend their homeland from Russian aggression.
