Ukraine raises Zaporizhia aid strike death toll to at least 50
The death toll from a Russian attack on an aid distribution center in Ukraine's Zaporizhia region has risen to at least 53 people, with up to 39 still trapped under rubble.
Ukrainian officials confirmed on Friday that eight more bodies were recovered from the rubble of the village of Komyshuvakha, where Russian forces struck a former school used for weekly aid distribution. The attack occurred on Monday, with Russian aircraft first bombing the school, then targeting the underground shelter where civilians had taken cover.
Double-tap strike
President Zelenskyy reported that after the initial aerial bomb strike, a second wave of nine more bombs specifically targeted the shelter, causing most of the destruction. 'After the first aerial bomb strike, there was a double-tap strike with nine more bombs, specifically targeting the shelter where people were taking cover,' he said on X.
After the first aerial bomb strike, there was a double-tap strike with nine more bombs, specifically targeting the shelter where people were taking cover.
Ongoing rescue efforts
As rescuers continue their search for a fifth day, specialists are taking DNA samples to identify bodies. Local police reported 59 people listed as missing, though some may be among those already found. Four police officers and two rescue workers were among the dead.
The UN human rights mission in Ukraine stated the strike likely breached international law. The attack came a day after a six-day ceasefire in the Russian-occupied city of Oleshky ended. Both countries continued trading drone attacks on Thursday, injuring several people including a child.
Diplomatic talks ahead
Delegations from Ukraine and Russia are expected to meet in Abu Dhabi on November 10-11 for US-brokered talks, though previous rounds have made little progress. Zelenskyy called the attack a 'vile terrorist strike,' signaling Moscow's refusal to stop the fighting.
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