Widespread shelling and drone attacks hit Ukraine’s south as Kremlin intensifies operations
Kherson, Ukraine (August 3, 2025) — Russia has launched a fresh wave of attacks on Ukraine’s southern Kherson region, killing at least two civilians and wounding nine others over the past 24 hours, according to Ukrainian regional authorities. The strikes come as part of a renewed Russian offensive along the southern front, deploying artillery, drones, and guided missiles to target both civilian infrastructure and Ukrainian military positions.
The escalation marks one of the most intense bombardments of the region since the spring counteroffensive. It signals a potential shift in Kremlin strategy, aimed at destabilising Ukrainian logistics and morale before winter.
Shelling Targets Residential Zones and Infrastructure
According to the Kherson Regional Military Administration, Russian forces struck 104 times between August 2 and August 3, with attacks concentrated in populated areas including Beryslav, Mykolaivka, and central Kherson City. Shells and drones targeted residential homes, power lines, and local health centres.
The attacks reportedly included:
- 57 artillery strikes
- 24 drone attacks, mostly Shahed-136 Iranian-made drones
- 18 airstrikes
- 5 guided missile launches
Governor Oleksandr Prokudin reported that a woman in her 50s was killed instantly when a shell hit her home in Bilozerka, while a man in the village of Komyshany died later in hospital from injuries sustained in a drone strike.
Ukraine’s Air Defences Continue Interceptions, But Strain Shows
Ukraine’s Air Force confirmed it had intercepted 17 out of 24 drones launched overnight, largely over the southern and central regions. However, the volume of attacks is placing strain on Ukraine’s air defences, already thinned by previous waves of Russian strikes.
Kherson, situated near the Dnipro River, remains highly vulnerable due to its proximity to Russian-occupied territory. Since withdrawing from the city last year, Russian forces have repeatedly shelled it from across the riverbanks in occupied Nova Kakhovka.
Kyiv Calls for More Air Defence Systems
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy again urged NATO allies and Western backers to expedite deliveries of advanced air defence systems. “Every drone we cannot intercept may cost innocent lives,” Zelenskyy said during his nightly address.
He reiterated Ukraine’s need for:
- Patriot missile batteries
- NASAMS (National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems)
- Additional radar units and counter-drone tech
With the U.S. Congress in recess and some European nations focused on domestic politics, analysts fear Ukraine may face a critical shortage of support this autumn unless new aid packages are approved.
Civilian Infrastructure Under Pressure
The southern energy grid, already fragile from previous strikes, was disrupted by yesterday’s shelling. Khersonoblenergo, the regional energy company, said 14 transformer stations were damaged, cutting power to over 8,000 homes.
Meanwhile, Kherson’s main children’s hospital was partially evacuated after a drone exploded within 100 metres of the building. Though no injuries were reported there, staff described the situation as “traumatising for both patients and medics.”
Russian Media Silent on Civilian Targets
Russian state media made no mention of the civilian casualties in Kherson but claimed that their military had struck “Ukrainian fortified positions and logistics nodes” in the region. The Russian Ministry of Defence called the attacks part of “active defence operations” aimed at preempting a Ukrainian southern advance.
Independent verification remains difficult in Russian-occupied zones due to tight information control.
International Response: UN and Red Cross Condemn Attacks
The United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine expressed alarm over the escalation. In a statement, they noted: “The deliberate targeting or reckless endangerment of civilians constitutes a breach of international humanitarian law and may amount to war crimes.”
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) called for “unhindered access” to Kherson and surrounding villages to deliver urgent medical and food supplies.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
More than 65,000 people remain in Kherson and its surrounding districts, many of whom are elderly or lack transportation. Aid groups say evacuation efforts are hampered by fuel shortages, destroyed roads, and fears of further shelling.
Local volunteer groups have begun transporting vulnerable residents out of high-risk zones using minibuses and private vehicles. “We are doing what we can with what little we have,” said Natalia K., a coordinator with Kherson Help Network. “But time is running out.”
Final Thoughts
Russia’s intensified assault on Kherson raises serious concerns about the trajectory of the war heading into autumn. While Ukrainian forces continue to hold their lines, the civilian toll is mounting in areas under near-daily fire. Without swift reinforcement of Ukraine’s air defences and humanitarian corridors, regions like Kherson may face not only military peril but total humanitarian collapse.
The international community must move beyond statements of condemnation and act swiftly to prevent further bloodshed.
FAQs
1. Where is Kherson located?
Kherson is in southern Ukraine, near the Dnipro River. It has strategic value due to its proximity to Crimea and the Black Sea.
2. Who controls Kherson?
Ukraine regained control of Kherson City in November 2022, but Russia continues to occupy the eastern riverbanks nearby.
3. Why is Kherson being targeted again?
Its location makes it a critical logistical hub. Russia aims to disrupt supply chains and demoralise civilians through constant attacks.
4. Are foreign countries helping Ukraine defend Kherson?
Yes, NATO countries have provided air defence systems and funding, but Ukraine claims more support is urgently needed.
5. What can civilians in Kherson do to stay safe?
Authorities advise staying in shelters during alerts, avoiding public gatherings, and evacuating when possible.
More From The Breadline Bulletin
- Manhattan Office Shooting Leaves Four Dead, Including NYPD Officer
- Massive 8.8-Magnitude Earthquake Hits Russia’s Far East, Tsunami Warnings Issued for Pacific Rim
- Trump Threatens 20–25% Tariffs on India Over Russian Oil Ties
- NASA and ISRO Launch World’s Most Advanced Earth-Mapping Satellite Today
- Deadly Shooting in NYC Office Tower Shocks Nation
Resources & References
- Kyiv Post
- Ukrainian Air Force Command Updates
- UN Human Rights Ukraine
- International Red Cross – Ukraine Operations
Disclaimer
This report is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available data from verified sources as of August 3, 2025. Due to the dynamic nature of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, details may change rapidly. The Breadline Bulletin does not take responsibility for changes after publication time.
SEO Meta Info:
SEO Title: Russia Escalates Strikes Near Kherson, Civilians Killed
Slug: russia-strikes-kherson-ukraine-august-2025
Meta Description: Russia launches major assault on Kherson, killing 2 and injuring 9 in renewed shelling and drone attacks on August 3, 2025.
