Devastation Strikes Komyshuvakha
On November 2, 2023, the settlement of Komyshuvakha in the Zaporizhzhia region was hit by a Russian airstrike that resulted in the deaths of 33 people. While five individuals were rescued, more than 50 remain trapped beneath the debris. Among the injured, one woman is in critical condition, suffering burns covering 81% of her body. The attack targeted a building used to distribute humanitarian aid to local residents.
Details of the Attack and Its Impact
The strike involved at least nine guided FAB-3000 aerial bombs dropped by Russian forces. The wounded were rushed to the city’s emergency medical hospital. Doctors report that patients are suffering from:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Shrapnel wounds
- Fractures to the jaw and limbs
- Burns and blast injuries
Four of the injured were admitted immediately after the strike, ranging in age from 22 to 68 years old. Three patients are in stable condition following surgical treatment, while one critically injured woman remains in intensive care on a ventilator.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the tragedy in Komyshuvakha, stating: "The operation in the Zaporizhzhia region’s Komyshuvakha settlement has been ongoing for the second day. Yesterday, Russian forces launched multiple airstrikes on this settlement. A single strike alone killed 33 people, five were rescued, and more than 50 may still be buried under the rubble. This is a horrific blow — one of the deadliest Russian attacks in this war."
In response to the tragedy, November 3 was declared a day of mourning throughout the Zaporizhzhia region. Medical teams continue to fight for the lives of those injured, many of whom require urgent surgical intervention. Dr. Serhiy Bodnar, who is treating the victims, explained: "One patient is in extremely critical condition, in intensive care on a ventilator, suffering from explosive trauma and burns covering her head, neck, torso, and limbs — up to 81% of her body is burned. Our doctors are doing everything possible to save her life."
This tragedy in Komyshuvakha highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis caused by the conflict in the region. Civilians continue to bear the brunt of military operations, facing severe risks and suffering devastating losses. Authorities and healthcare providers are mobilizing all available resources to assist those affected, yet the scale of casualties underscores the grave consequences of the war on Ukraine’s civilian population.
In light of the devastating events in Komyshuvakha, it is important to note that this airstrike is part of a troubling pattern of violence in the region. Just days earlier, another attack resulted in significant casualties, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis. For more on the impact of these strikes and the official response, see our report on the recent airstrike that claimed 29 lives.