Destruction of Kharkiv's Iconic TV Tower by Russian Missile Attack
Footage shared online captures the dramatic collapse of Kharkiv's towering structure as it crumbles to the ground following a missile strike, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake.
A Ukrainian official reported that the top section of a huge television tower in Kharkiv collapsed to the ground after being hit by a Russian missile.
Videos shared on social media captured the moment when the mast's top broke off, rotated 180 degrees, and dropped to the ground. Smoke was already rising from the structure, indicating that it had been hit by a Kh-59 cruise missile, according to Kharkiv prosecutors.
Videos shared on social media also capture the fallen mast, with trees around it at the tower's base.
The tower, standing over 240 meters tall, was built in the early 1980s during Ukraine's time as part of the Soviet Union.
Oleh Syniehubov, the head of the Kharkiv region military administration, mentioned that the staff at the tower were inside the shelter during the attack and fortunately, no one was hurt. He also noted that the digital TV signal in the city was experiencing interruptions.
The television tower in Kharkiv, Ukraine, after its top crashed to the ground following a Russian missile strike on April 22, 2024.
The television tower in Kharkiv, Ukraine, after its top crashed to the ground following a Russian missile strike on April 22, 2024.
Sofiia Gatilova/Reuters
Kharkiv, situated only 30 kilometers (18 miles) from the Russian border, has experienced a significant rise in Russian attacks since the beginning of the year.
According to the mayor, just a month ago, the city's primary power plant was obliterated in a Russian assault, resulting in the destruction of all electricity substations in the city.
During a phone call with US President Joe Biden, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky shared details about the attack on the TV tower. He expressed concern that Russia's actions were aimed at making the city uninhabitable.
As a result of the frequent attacks on Ukraine's second largest city, Kyiv has identified air defense as a key priority for receiving new military aid from the United States.
The US Senate is set to vote on a $60 billion legislation this week, following its approval in the House over the weekend.
The Pentagon has assured that once given the green light, they can start moving materials "within days."
Editor's P/S:
The relentless bombardment of Kharkiv, Ukraine, by Russian forces has reached a new level of devastation with the collapse of the city's iconic television tower. This attack, which occurred on April 22, 2024, has not only disrupted vital communication infrastructure but also serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing human toll of the conflict.
The fact that the tower's staff were fortunately able to shelter during the attack highlights the resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people. Despite the constant threat of violence, they continue to work tirelessly to maintain essential services and provide support to their communities. The international community must continue to stand in solidarity with Ukraine and provide the necessary aid to help them withstand this brutal aggression.
