Shelling stepped up on northeastern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv: Mayor

By Jeyhun Aliyev

ANKARA (AA) - The intensity of Russia's shelling increased in Ukraine's northeastern city of Kharkiv, its mayor said Monday.

"Each of you (Kharkiv residents) can see that the intensity of the shelling increased. The enemy began to attack Kharkiv more often during the day, significantly expanding the geography of the bombardments," Ihor Terekhov said in a video address to the city’s residents that he posted on Telegram.

He said the 47th day of the Russia-Ukraine war "turned out to be difficult" for Kharkiv.

Terekhov said residential areas have been under bombardment again, noting that rescue teams defused delayed action ammunition in the city.

There are casualties as a result of attacks, he said, adding a child has been killed in the bombardment.

"Therefore, I appeal to you again and again, if possible, stay in shelters, in basements and metro stations," he said.

He went on to say that he decided to resume the "educational process," adding "our children need to end the academic year."

Russia's war on Ukraine, which began on Feb. 24, has drawn international condemnation, led to financial sanctions on Moscow and spurred an exodus of global companies from Russia.

At least 1,842 civilians have been killed and 2,493 injured in Ukraine since Russia declared war on Feb. 24, according to UN estimates, with the true figure feared to be much higher.

Over 4.5 million Ukrainians have fled to other countries, with millions more internally displaced, according to the UN refugee agency.​​​​