Russia Intensifies Drone and Bomb Attacks on Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia, Deepening Civilian Fear

Russia has intensified its aerial assault on the southeastern Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia, leaving residents facing growing danger as drone and glide bomb attacks become more frequent. The escalating strikes have disrupted daily life, damaged businesses, and heightened fears among civilians living near the front line.

Seafood business owner Kateryna Lahuta, 41, said two Russian bombs destroyed her processing facility last month, eliminating any remaining sense of security. Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022, Zaporizhzhia has endured regular missile and drone attacks, but residents say recent assaults are more relentless. Ukrainians have even adopted the term “safari” to describe first-person-view (FPV) drones that appear to hunt civilians and vehicles in the streets.

Reuters journalists visiting Lahuta’s damaged business were forced to seek shelter after hearing the distinctive sound of an FPV drone overhead. These agile explosive drones, widely used along the front lines, have increasingly targeted urban areas.

Ukrainian officials accuse Russia of using the attacks to spread fear while damaging infrastructure. Governor Ivan Fedorov said Russian forces have expanded the range of FPV drones and are regularly deploying powerful glide bombs that are difficult to intercept without advanced air defense systems. Russia continues to deny deliberately targeting civilians.

Although Russian troops have struggled to make significant battlefield gains south of Zaporizhzhia, officials say the air campaign has intensified. Public transportation, civilian vehicles, and residential neighborhoods have all come under attack. Protective drone netting is now being installed in some districts, while transit authorities are testing drone detection monitors and reinforced bus windows to improve passenger safety.

Despite the constant threat, essential public services continue operating. Twelve city-run buses and trams have been damaged this year, but officials say transportation will remain available.

Residents say adapting to the danger has become part of everyday life. Many children now attend underground schools and kindergartens designed as bomb shelters. Similar drone tactics have also been reported in Kharkiv, highlighting a broader escalation in Russia’s air campaign against frontline Ukrainian cities. Recent strikes in Zaporizhzhia have killed and injured dozens, leaving many residents emotionally exhausted but determined to carry on.