Russian Airstrikes in Ukraine: Prison and Hospital Hit, Dozens Killed

Russian Strikes Kill Dozens in Ukraine

At least 25 people have been killed in a series of Russian airstrikes across Ukraine, according to local officials. The attacks targeted a prison in the Zaporizhzhia region and a hospital in the Dnipropetrovsk region, resulting in numerous injuries.

Deadly Attack on Bilenke Penitentiary

The deadliest attack occurred at the Bilenke penitentiary in the southern Zaporizhzhia region, where 16 inmates were killed and more than 50 were injured. The Ukrainian justice ministry reported that the prison was struck by four glide bombs, causing extensive damage to the dining hall, administrative headquarters, and quarantine area.

Other Attacks

A separate Russian strike on people queuing for humanitarian aid in the north-eastern Kharkiv region resulted in the deaths of five civilians. In the central Dnipropetrovsk region, a hospital strike killed three people, including a pregnant woman. Another casualty was reported elsewhere in the region.

Zelensky's Response

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attacks and called for increased international pressure on Russia to end the violence. He stated that Russia "must be forced to stop the killings and make peace" through tough sanctions.

Russian Claims and Counter-Attacks

The attacks come amid ongoing conflict, with Russia claiming territorial gains in Ukrainian territory. Ukraine has rejected these claims. Meanwhile, Russia reported drone attacks on its Rostov and Belgorod regions.