A Russian air strike has resulted in the deaths of 23 civilians at a pension disbursal point in the village of Yarova, located in eastern Ukraine. This incident occurred as Russian forces continue their offensive in the Donetsk region, where diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict have stalled.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that a guided bomb struck Yarova, approximately 24 kilometers from Sloviansk, a key Ukrainian city. The attack happened while civilians were receiving their pensions. Zelenskyy shared video footage on social media showing the aftermath, with bodies scattered and debris littering the area.

Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko confirmed that 23 individuals were killed and 18 others were injured in the strike. He noted that some victims are still being identified through DNA analysis.

Zelenskyy urged international allies to increase pressure on Russia to end the war, stating, "The world must not remain silent." He emphasized the need for a response from the United States, Europe, and the G20.

Civilians were reportedly en route to celebrate a religious holiday when the missile hit.

Russia has not commented on Zelenskyy's statements. The Kremlin has consistently denied targeting civilians, despite the significant civilian casualties since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022.

In a related incident last week, a Russian air strike near Chernihiv killed two members of a Danish-sponsored humanitarian de-mining mission. European Council President Antonio Costa questioned Russia's commitment to peace, asking, "Is this what Russia means when it talks about peace? When will Russia stop killing people?"