Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine — A devastating attack on the southern Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia has led to the deaths of at least 13 civilians and injured approximately 30 others, according to multiple reports from officials and eyewitness accounts. The aerial assault, described as a deliberate strike by Russian forces, involved guided bombs aimed at residential areas, compounding the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia (Reuters, LA Times).

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in a statement released on X (formerly Twitter), expressed condolences to the families affected by the tragedy and condemned the violence, stating, "There is nothing more cruel than launching aerial bombs on a city, knowing that ordinary civilians will suffer." He emphasized the urgent need for Ukraine's Western allies to heighten pressure on Russia to prevent further attacks (VOA News, Al Jazeera).

Details from the scene are harrowing, with **footage circulating on social media showing bloodied civilians receiving emergency treatment amidst the wreckage**. Reports confirm that debris from the attack hit both a tram and a bus, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the violence aimed at civilian infrastructure (Le Monde, India Times).

Regional Governor Ivan Fedorov confirmed that prior to the attack, warnings had been issued regarding incoming missiles. He announced that Thursday would be honored as an official day of mourning in recognition of the victims. This attack is part of a broader pattern where Russian airstrikes have frequently targeted civilian areas, leading to widespread condemnation and calls for international support for Ukraine.

Earlier on the same day, Ukrainian forces reportedly targeted a fuel storage depot deep within Russian territory, demonstrating both resilience and retaliation amid the ongoing hostilities (LA Times, Le Monde).

As Ukraine prepares for what many expect could be an intensified conflict, Zelenskyy reiterated the need for comprehensive security guarantees from international allies to ensure lasting peace and stability.