A Russian attack on the eastern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv hit a playground and killed a 14-year-old girl, local officials said.
At least five people were killed and dozens injured in the attack, which also hit a home in the city near the Russian border.
Pictures showed flames and thick black smoke billowing from the upper parts of the building as firefighters rushed people to safety.
President Zelensky once again called on all of Ukraine’s international partners to allow it to attack targets in Russia to prevent such attacks.
Hours before the attack, Zelensky fired Air Force chief Lieutenant General Mykola Oreshchuk.
Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city about 35 kilometers (22 miles) from the Russian border, has been the target of frequent attacks since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.
Regional governor Oleg Sinegubov said on Telegram that at least 59 people were injured, 20 of them seriously and some requiring amputation. He said nine children were also injured during the strike.
Further pictures showed part of the building’s facade collapsed and a number of cars outside on fire.
Sinegubov said the attack was launched from Russia’s Belgorod region on the other side of the border.
“Let us be clear, there is a guidance system [on the missiles]. We came to a conclusion,” he said.
“These streets are completely parks and there are large gatherings of civilians. This is a residential building. This is yet another mass act of terror against our civilians.”
Zelensky said Russia was targeting “ordinary” people and that the attack could have been avoided if Ukraine “had the ability to destroy Russian military aircraft at its bases.”
“This is an absolutely legitimate need. There is no legitimate reason to limit Ukraine’s defense,” he said.
Ukraine’s Western allies have partly refused to allow the use of weapons to attack Russian territory, fearing an escalation of the conflict.
The UK has Allow most devices It has been offered for use against Russia, but exceptions remain for the long-range Storm Shadow missile.
in May, U.S. allows Ukraine Targets in Russia were struck, but only near the Kharkov region and only “in counterattack against Russian forces attacking or preparing to attack these targets.”
It continues to refuse to allow deeper strikes into Russian territory.
“We need Ukraine’s long-range capabilities and full implementation of air defense protocols. These are life-saving measures,” Zelensky said.
Responding to Friday’s attack, U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brinker said: “Rescue operations are underway and our thoughts are with the people of Kharkiv.
“Russia must be held accountable for these war crimes.”
Earlier this week, Multiple sources told the BBC Western technology and finance are helping Ukraine conduct hundreds of long-range strikes against Russia using Ukrainian-produced drones.
Targets included air bases, oil and ammunition depots, and command centers.
