Russian airstrike on Komyshuvakha in Zaporizhzhia region claims 33 lives; over 50 remain trapped under rubble

On November 2, 2023, a Russian airstrike hit the settlement of Komyshuvakha in the Zaporizhzhia region, resulting in the deaths of 33 people. Five individuals were rescued, but more than 50 people may still be trapped under the debris. Among the victims, one woman is in critical condition, having sustained burns covering 81% of her body. The strike targeted a building used for the distribution of humanitarian aid to local residents.

Russian forces attacked the settlement using at least nine FAB-3000 guided aerial bombs. The victims were transported to the city’s emergency and urgent medical care hospital. Doctors report that the patients have sustained traumatic brain injuries, shrapnel wounds, fractures of the jaw and limbs, burns, and blast-related acoustic trauma.

Four victims were admitted to the hospital following the strike; they range in age from 22 to 68. Three patients are in moderate, stable condition and have undergone surgery, while one patient—requiring specialized care—is in the intensive care unit on a ventilator. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated: “For the second day now, an operation has been underway in the settlement of Komyshuvakha, in the Zaporizhzhia region. Yesterday, the Russians launched several aerial bomb strikes on this settlement. A single strike resulted in 33 deaths; five people were rescued, and more than 50 others may still be trapped under the rubble. A horrific strike—one of the largest mass killings committed by the Russians during this war.”

Doctors continue to fight for the lives of the victims, as some have sustained severe injuries requiring urgent medical intervention. According to Serhii Bodnar, a physician treating the victims, one patient is in critical condition in the intensive care unit; she is on a ventilator, suffering from blast injuries and burns covering up to 81% of her body—including her head, neck, torso, and limbs. Medical staff are fighting to save her life.

The tragedy in Komyshuvakha serves as further evidence of the consequences of the ongoing hostilities in the region. This incident highlights the humanitarian crisis facing local residents and the devastating impact of the war on the civilian population. While authorities and medical facilities are doing everything possible to assist the victims, the high casualty toll underscores the grave risks posed by the military conflict in Ukraine.

This tragedy in Komyshuvakha stands as one of the most significant catastrophes caused by Russian forces during the war.