Tragedy in Zaporizhzhia: Russian Strike Devastates Penal Colony

Overnight, Russian strikes on a penal colony in Ukraine's frontline region of Zaporizhzhia resulted in the deaths of 16 individuals and left at least 35 others injured, Ukrainian military officials and the regional governor reported on Tuesday.

Governor Ivan Fedorov, sharing the news on Telegram, noted significant destruction at the correctional facility and damage to nearby private homes. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, labeled the attack 'another war crime' by Russia.

Russia's military actions in Zaporizhzhia, marked by the use of drones, missiles, and bombs, continue a pattern of aggression that began with Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine and subsequent illegal land annexations. Fedorov reported eight strikes using high-explosive aerial bombs, though these could not be independently verified. Both Russia and Ukraine deny intentionally targeting civilians; however, the conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties.

(With inputs from agencies.)