Russian Missile Attack Kills Eight in Zaporizhzhia

A devastating missile strike by Russia on the southern Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia has left at least eight people dead and 22 injured, including a child, according to local authorities. The attack targeted a private clinic and nearby residential buildings, causing widespread destruction.

Efforts to rescue those trapped under the rubble are ongoing. Overnight, rescuers managed to pull two women from the wreckage, both of whom are now receiving treatment at a local hospital. However, fears remain that the death toll could rise as search operations continue.

Ballistic Missile Attack Devastates City Center

Zaporizhzhia regional head Ivan Fedorov reported that the missile used in the attack was likely a Russian Iskander ballistic missile. The assault highlights the continued vulnerability of Ukrainian cities to Russia’s advanced weaponry. As of now, the Russian defense ministry has not issued a comment regarding the incident.

Ukraine’s Plea for Advanced Air Defenses

In the aftermath of the attack, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky renewed his calls for Western allies to provide more advanced air defense systems. He emphasized the urgent need for these systems to save lives and protect infrastructure from daily missile and drone attacks. “We don’t have enough systems to protect our country from Russian missiles. Our partners have these systems,” Zelensky stated, urging Western nations to act.

International Atomic Energy Agency Incident

On the same day, tensions escalated further as both Ukraine and Russia accused each other of attacking a convoy transporting International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) experts. The convoy was en route to the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) when one of its vehicles was severely damaged. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The IAEA condemned the attack, emphasizing the need to ensure the safety of its personnel and the nuclear facility.

Continued Crisis in Zaporizhzhia

Zaporizhzhia has been a focal point of conflict since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. Despite Moscow’s claims of annexing the region, Ukraine continues to resist, vowing to hold Russia accountable for its actions. A day of mourning has been declared in the region to honor the victims of the latest attack. Regional head Ivan Fedorov vowed justice, saying, “We will not forgive! Russia will pay for every Ukrainian life taken and mutilated.”