**Russian Strikes in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia Region Kill 16, Injure Dozens**
A devastating night of Russian strikes on a penal colony in the frontline region of Zaporizhzhia in southwestern Ukraine has left 16 people dead and at least 35 injured. According to regional Ukrainian military and Zaporizhzhia’s governor Ivan Fedorov, the correctional facility’s buildings were destroyed, with nearby private homes also damaged.
The attack on Tuesday night is just the latest example of Russia’s continued aggression in Ukraine. Moscow forces have repeatedly targeted Zaporizhzhia since the start of the war, using drones, missiles, and aerial bombs. The region has been under constant bombardment, with many civilians killed or injured as a result.
**International Condemnation**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, condemned the strikes as “another war crime” committed by Russia. Yermak took to social media platform X to express his outrage and call for international action against Russia.
“(Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s regime must face economic and military blows that strip it of the capacity to wage war,” Yermak said. His comments reflect growing frustration from Ukraine and its Western allies with Russia’s continued aggression, including its annexation of parts of Zaporizhzhia and other Ukrainian regions earlier in the conflict.
**Recurring Attacks**
Zaporizhzhia governor Ivan Fedorov reported that Russian forces launched eight strikes on the district using high-explosive aerial bombs. While Reuters could not independently verify this report, it is clear that the region has been repeatedly targeted by Russia since the start of the war in 2022.
**War Crimes Denial**
Both sides have consistently denied targeting civilians in their strikes, despite thousands of Ukrainian civilians being killed or injured in the conflict. The devastating attack on Tuesday night serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of this ongoing conflict and the need for international action to bring Russia to account for its actions.
As the world watches with growing concern, one thing is clear: the people of Ukraine will not be deterred from fighting for their freedom and their right to live in peace.
