Russia has dramatically intensified attacks on Zaporizhzhia, a city of 750,000 near the front lines. Glide bombs and drones have recently targeted buses, petrol stations, schools, government offices, and residential buildings, worsening security for civilians.
The intensified Russian attacks on Zaporizhzhia highlight the escalating threat to civilian populations in Ukraine and the evolving tactics used in the conflict, impacting daily life and safety for hundreds of thousands of residents.
Russia has intensified its attacks on the Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia, a key administrative center located approximately 24km from the front lines. Residents are experiencing a dramatic deterioration in security, with Russian forces employing glide bombs and drones to strike civilian targets. These attacks, which have become more frequent and intense in recent weeks, have hit numerous buses, petrol stations, schools, government offices, and residential buildings.
Anna Holovchenko, an IT specialist living in the city, described being woken by glide bombs and later by drones, noting that such events have become an "ordinary day" in Zaporizhzhia. Acting mayor Regina Kharchenko stated that the "enemy has stepped up terror against civilians" and that the city council has met in an underground shelter to address the worsening situation.
In response to the escalating attacks, authorities are planning to construct more shelters and deploy additional anti-drone nets in vulnerable locations. Anti-shatter film is also being applied to windows in schools, hospitals, and public buildings. Kharchenko expressed personal fear, noting her ordinary life in a high-rise building without personal security.
Analysts suggest the increased intensity of attacks may be due to Russia's use of longer-range mothership drones that deploy smaller, lethal FPV drones, along with mesh networking technology that makes them harder to jam. A potential reduction in Ukrainian electronic warfare activity, with a greater focus on other fronts, may also be a contributing factor. Local authorities reported intercepting 884 Russian drones in the final week of June alone.
Despite Russian troops being pushed back from the immediate vicinity of the city, the attacks persist. This comes as Ukrainian forces have successfully targeted Russian oil refineries and logistics in occupied territories. Many residents, like Anna Holovchenko, remain in the city, choosing to stay safe and survive until what they hope will be a Ukrainian victory.