Russia hits Kharkiv zoo with drone: Animals killed (photos)

On June 15, Russian forces launched a drone strike on Kharkiv’s Shevchenkivskyi district, with a direct hit recorded on the grounds of the local zoo.

The attack was confirmed by Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov.

«A hit on the zoo has been confirmed. Enclosures are damaged, and we are still gathering details. Information regarding injured animals is coming in,» he stated.

«One of the drones struck the zoo grounds, causing a fire. Debris was also reported to have fallen onto a roadway. As of now, no casualties have been reported, ” said Oleh Synehubov, Head of the Kharkiv Regional Military Administration.

The State Emergency Service later specified that several animals were killed in the attack.
«Following the strike, a fire broke out in one of the enclosures on the zoo grounds, which was promptly extinguished by fire and rescue units. State Emergency Service rescuers and psychologists, alongside National Police officers and zoo staff, evacuated the vivarium building. Through their joint efforts, the animals were rescued and moved to a safe location, ” rescuers said.

The Kharkiv City Council press service added that the Shahed drone struck an area between the vivarium (which houses rabbits, guinea pigs, and other small animals), the administration building, and the Elephant House.

Specialists are currently inspecting the grounds, checking buildings, and clearing the aftermath of the strike. It is noted that all large animals survived.

Russian drone strike hits Kharkiv Zoo (8 photos) (8 photos)