KYIV, Ukraine — Russian airstrikes have caused widespread destruction across Ukraine, leaving at least 20 people dead, including 16 prisoners killed in a targeted strike on a prison facility in Zaporizhzhia.
According to Ukrainian media reports, Russia launched overnight aerial assaults on Kyiv and several other regions. The most devastating attack occurred in Zaporizhzhia, where a prison was struck by eight separate airstrikes, reportedly using heavy FAB-type bombs.
Authorities confirmed that 16 inmates lost their lives, while 35 others were seriously injured. The prison building sustained severe structural damage, making rescue efforts challenging.
In Dnipropetrovsk, located in southern Ukraine, additional air raids claimed four more lives, with numerous civilians injured. Local officials reported damage to residential properties and public infrastructure, and emergency response teams are actively engaged in relief efforts.
The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense condemned the strikes, labeling them as war crimes and calling on the international community for a strong response. As of now, Russian authorities have not issued an official statement regarding the attacks.
The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which began in February 2022, has resulted in thousands of civilian casualties. Russia continues to face international criticism for targeting civilian infrastructure and population centers in its military campaign.
