Twenty killed in Russian strikes in Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk region

Russian forces bombed the Bilenke Correctional Colony in Ukraine’s southern Zaporizhzhia region overnight on July 28, killing at least 17 civilians and injuring 42 others, according to the Ukrainian Justice Ministry. 

Rescue operations are ongoing as of midday on July 29.

The attack involved four guided aerial bombs that were dropped on civilian buildings within the prison complex. The facility’s dining hall was destroyed, while the administrative headquarters and quarantine unit suffered major damage.

“Those severely wounded have been hospitalized in Ministry of Health facilities,” the Justice Ministry said.

Shelling of civilian infrastructure, including penitentiaries, is considered a war crime.

“This strike once again demonstrates the Russian armed forces’ blatant disregard for international humanitarian law,” the ministry said.

In a separate overnight attack on July 29, Russia launched ballistic missiles at the city of Kamianske in the Dnipropetrovsk region. 

The strike partially destroyed a three-story building and damaged both a maternity ward and another unit of the city hospital, according to public broadcaster Suspilne. 

Three people were killed, and five more were injured.

“There were two strikes. After the first one, we ran into a hallway. Then the second hit — everything shattered,” said Vadym, a local resident who was inside the maternity hospital with his wife at the time of the attack. “I grabbed my wife by the hand and led her to a safer place. She was terrified. I was more worried for them. Our baby is just two days old. They’re safe now, staying with family.”

Russia attacks Ukrainian cities and villages daily. The Ukrainian World Congress publishes news on the largest shelling incidents. More detailed information on the consequences of Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, read the Victory Chronicles.