Russian attacks on Zaporizhzhia leave 1 dead, 4 injured

Russian forces launched a series of overnight attacks on the southeastern Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia, resulting in one death and injuring at least four people, including two children. Local emergency services shared footage of rescue efforts at a damaged apartment building. A city official reported a higher injury toll of five, including a 13-year-old girl. These attacks followed earlier strikes that had already wounded at least 23 people in the city.

Ukraine's military reported that Russia attacked with four aerial drones and two guided missiles overnight, with Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepting three of the drones. Zaporizhzhia regional governor Ivan Fedorov stated that the attacks damaged 13 apartment buildings, educational institutions, cars, garages, and private residences.

In response, Russia's Defense Ministry claimed to have intercepted eight Ukrainian drones over the Belgorod and Kursk regions. Belgorod's governor reported damage to cars, apartments, an industrial building, and a playground from these intercepted drones.

These events coincide with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's visit to the United States to seek increased support. Zelenskyy toured an ammunition factory in Pennsylvania and is scheduled to speak at the United Nations and meet with US President Joe Biden.

The ongoing conflict, which began with Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, continues to result in civilian casualties, despite Russia's denials of targeting non-combatants. The recent attacks underscore the persistent threat to civilian areas in Ukraine and the need for continued international support and diplomatic efforts to address the conflict.