Maria Simonenkova Rescued After Hours Trapped Under Rubble During Deadly Missile Attack on Kharkiv

On the early morning of June 7, 2025, Russia launched a heavy missile and drone attack on Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city. More than 40 explosions shook the city as Kremlin forces fired 48 kamikaze drones, six bombs, and missiles.

At least two people died and dozens were injured in the overnight strikes. Among the survivors was 26-year-old Maria Simonenkova. She was trapped for three hours under a heavy slab of rubble in her home. Maria, a graduate of Kharkiv National University of Internal Affairs, was asleep when the building was hit.

Her mother, Iryna Simonenkova, said Maria was lying on the bed when the explosion turned her over. Maria ended up trapped beneath the bed and concrete slab. “She was screaming and begging for help,” said Iryna. “I tried to lift the slab but it was impossible.”

Rescuers finally pulled Maria out, and she was stretchered into an ambulance. Her mother fears Maria may have serious injuries. “I want to find out what is wrong with her legs and arms,” Iryna said.

The attack damaged 18 apartment buildings and 13 private houses. Kharkiv’s mayor, Igor Terekhov, called it the city’s “most powerful attack” since the war began. Two people were killed and 17 injured, including two children.

Ukrainian officials continue to provide medical care for the wounded. Despite the destruction, a woman was pulled alive from the rubble of a high-rise building.

US President Donald Trump blamed Ukraine for provoking the attack. He said Ukraine’s Operation Spiderweb, which damaged Russian nuclear strike planes, gave Russia a reason to retaliate.

The city of Kharkiv has suffered heavy attacks in recent days. Other cities targeted overnight included Pavlohrad, Odesa, Poltava, Vinnytsia, and Ternopil. Moscow’s major airports were closed after drone threats, and Russian forces claimed to have shot down Ukrainian drones near nuclear sites.

Ukraine is pushing for a 30-day ceasefire, but Russia has rejected peace offers.