Russian bombing kills at least 5 in Zaporizhzhia

Russia attacked the southern Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia with guided aerial bombs on June 20, 2026, resulting in at least five deaths and 10 injuries, according to Zaporizhzhia Oblast Governor Ivan Fedorov. Preliminary information indicated that Russian forces launched nine glide bombs on the regional capital.

Fedorov shared images and videos on his Telegram channel depicting damage to houses and apartment buildings, as well as significant smoke plumes over the city. He also issued warnings to residents about potential ballistic missile strikes. Fedorov characterized Russia as a "terrorist state."

The city of Zaporizhzhia, which had a population of approximately 710,000 before Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, is a frequent target. It is situated about 40 to 50 kilometers from the front line and regularly experiences attacks from Russian drones, artillery, missiles, and aerial bombs.

Guided aerial bombs, while having a shorter range than missiles, are less expensive to produce. They are deployed from aircraft operating behind front lines within Russian or Russian-occupied territories, placing them beyond the reach of Ukrainian air defenses. Their construction and high speed make them exceptionally difficult to intercept.