Zaporizhzhia: A devastating Russian airstrike struck the southeastern Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia on Monday, killing three civilians and injuring at least two others, regional authorities confirmed. Governor Ivan Fedorov reported that the assault involved multiple aerial bombs targeting residential neighborhoods, causing extensive structural damage and displacing numerous families. The attack underscores the escalating humanitarian crisis in Ukraine as civilian areas continue to bear the brunt of ongoing military operations.
The bombardment left a trail of destruction in its wake, destroying 15 apartment buildings and 10 private homes, alongside several non-residential structures. Fires ignited by the explosions raged through the affected areas, requiring urgent intervention by local emergency services. Dozens of residents were forced to evacuate, many losing all their possessions, while authorities coordinated rescue and relief efforts amid ongoing security concerns.
In addition to the airstrikes, Ukrainian defense forces reported intercepting 132 Russian drones launched overnight. Despite these efforts, nine drones successfully struck seven different locations across Ukraine, including the Sumy and Kyiv regions. In Sumy, two people were injured and several homes damaged, while in Kyiv, a strike injured one civilian and damaged residential buildings. These incidents highlight the growing use of unmanned aerial attacks alongside traditional bombing campaigns, raising concerns about civilian safety.
Monday’s attacks mark another chapter in the intensifying conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Local authorities emphasized that the indiscriminate targeting of residential areas continues to escalate the humanitarian toll, with families struggling to find shelter and essential services. International organizations have condemned the attacks, calling for immediate measures to protect civilians and urging a return to dialogue to prevent further loss of life.
As Zaporizhzhia grapples with the aftermath, the community faces immense challenges in rebuilding homes and restoring public services while under the constant threat of renewed attacks. Officials and aid organizations are mobilizing support, but the ongoing hostilities complicate relief operations. The strike is a stark reminder of the human cost of the war, underscoring the urgent need for international attention and intervention to safeguard civilians in conflict zones.