Russian forces struck Kostiantynivka again: civilians injured and private houses destroyed
On a calm Saturday, the city of Kostiantynivka, which remains one of the focal points of hostilities in eastern Ukraine, was once again targeted by Russian military forces. According to preliminary information, several civilians were injured as a result of air strikes carried out by the Russian Federation, and critical infrastructure sustained serious damage, as confirmed by Serhii Horbunov, head of the Kostiantynivka City Military Administration. He stated that around 4:45 PM on Saturday, unidentified aircraft carried out a series of airstrikes on the city and surrounding areas. During the attack, the Russians used so-called FAB-250 bombs — kamikaze drones equipped with UMPK modules, which caused significant destruction. These attacks damaged numerous civilian infrastructures and injured several residents. “Today after noon, four enemy airstrikes were carried out in the city,” Horbunov reported in his official Facebook post. “We have information that one person was wounded and is currently receiving medical assistance. Two others may be trapped under the rubble of private houses. All inspections and rescue operations are ongoing, but the situation is complicated by additional drone strikes destroying fiber optic cables and hampering access to the affected areas.” Additionally, according to the city head, two more civilians lost their lives during the morning shelling. The shelling affected not only residential buildings. Preliminary reports indicate that at least 11 private homes were damaged, and communications were destroyed or partially damaged — including four power lines owned by DTEK. This resulted in a blackout for a significant part of the city, creating additional difficulties for residents and utility services in coping with the aftermath of the attack. Rescue workers are working around the clock at the scene. They are inspecting the area, conducting clearing and rescue operations among the debris in the collapsed ruins, attempting to save people who may still be trapped under the rubble. During the operation, rescuers face new dangers, including attacking FPV drones deliberately targeting critical infrastructure, which complicates their work. Overall, experts and local residents note that this series of attacks highlights the increasing aggression of Russian troops and their tactics aimed not only at military targets but also at civilians, creating an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty. It is worth recalling that earlier the same day, chief of the city’s administration Serhii Horbunov reported a previous missile strike that also wounded two civilians. This indicates an escalation in the regional situation and an ongoing fight for the safety of Kostiantynivka’s residents, which remains one of the main targets of Russian occupiers in eastern Ukraine. Local authorities and emergency services urge residents to stay cautious, follow safety rules, and support each other during these difficult times. While Ukrainian defenders fight on the front lines for every inch of their homeland, civilians are once again victims of aggression, underscoring the need for international support and enhanced humanitarian efforts to restore normal life in this region.