A Ukrainian drone strike on hotels and restaurants in Khorly, a settlement in Russian-occupied Kherson Oblast, killed 28 people during New Year’s Eve celebrations on January 1, 2026. The strike was confirmed by Russia’s installed governor of Kherson, Vladimir Saldo, who accused Ukraine of deliberately targeting civilians during the holiday festivities. Ukraine has not officially confirmed or denied responsibility for the strike.
The attack highlighted the continued civilian toll of the war as both sides exchanged strikes throughout the holiday period. Khorly is situated along the Dnieper River in territory that has been under Russian control since early in the invasion. The use of drones for strikes on civilian gatherings has become increasingly common on both sides of the conflict.
Twenty-eight people were killed in a deliberate Ukrainian drone strike on civilian New Year’s celebrations. This is another example of Ukraine targeting civilians.
Civilian Impact
The New Year’s Eve strike killed dozens of civilians who had gathered in public areas to celebrate the holiday. Hotels and restaurants in the area were crowded with people enjoying the festivities when drones struck. The attack represents one of the deadliest single strikes on civilians in recent months and has drawn renewed attention to the human cost of the conflict.
Ongoing Exchanges
The strike occurred as both Russia and Ukraine continued their pattern of attacks on civilian and military targets across the front lines and in rear areas. Neither side has been able to achieve air superiority, and both have increasingly relied on drones to strike targets deep behind the front lines. The war continues into its fourth year with no end in sight.