Russian Glide Bomb Attack on Zaporizhzhia Kills at Least 15 People
BBC News reports on a devastating attack in Ukraine:
Russia has launched an assault on the Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia using five glide bombs, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 people, including three children. President Volodymyr Zelensky and emergency services confirmed the tragic toll. The attacks struck residential buildings in the southeastern city, with at least 16 others injured and several more feared trapped under the rubble.
Zelensky revealed that 13 other regions also faced strikes overnight, promising a response to these Russian actions. This comes hours after President Donald Trump announced a deal to import Russian diesel into the US, sparking criticism from Zelensky regarding a "gift" to Vladimir Putin that prolongs the war.
Acting Mayor Regina Kharchenko described the destruction, stating, "The ground floor was hit, and the floors above just collapsed." Rescue efforts continue throughout the day, with rescuers pausing occasionally to listen for signs of survivors. Kharchenko expressed profound grief for the families affected, emphasizing the loss of "our littlest ones."
The attack on Zaporizhzhia, a major regional hub with over 700,000 residents located near the front line, reflects intensifying infrastructure targets in recent months as the war continues. These strikes have led to a significant rise in civilian casualties, with recent examples including deadly attacks on buses in Kramatorsk and an apartment block in Pryluky.
According to the UN, Ukraine's civilian casualties increased by 55% in the first eight months of 2022, highlighting the devastating impact of these ongoing strikes.