Russia launched a rare daytime drone attack on the Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Tuesday, September 30, killing one person and injuring at least 20 others, according to local officials.
The assault caused extensive damage to civilian infrastructure, including medical facilities, residential and office buildings, and dozens of cars.
Authorities described it as one of the most brazen strikes in recent weeks.
“So far, more than 10 people have been reported injured. All of them are receiving the necessary medical care,” President Volodymyr Zelenskiy confirmed.
Regional governor Serhiy Lysak said the strike targeted the centre of the industrial city at a time when people were at work and children were in school.
He shared a video on Telegram showing heavy smoke rising above the skyline as firefighters battled intense flames.
“An office building was on fire,” Lysak said, adding that several surrounding structures had been hit.
“The damage covers both private and public property,” he added.
Rescue Efforts Underway After Russia Attack
Emergency workers rushed to the scene to evacuate people from damaged buildings and extinguish fires.
Photos and videos posted online showed streets littered with debris and cars mangled by the blasts.
“Right now, in Dnipro, rescuers and all emergency and utility services are responding after a Russian drone strike on the city, a brazen attack in broad daylight,” President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said.
Zelenskiy’s Appeal for Sanctions
The Ukrainian president condemned the attack as a deliberate strike on civilians and renewed his appeal for stronger international sanctions against Russia.
“With every such strike, Russians prove time and again that they must face strong pressure,” Zelenskiy said.
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He argued that current sanctions were insufficient and urged allies to intensify restrictions on Moscow’s economy and war-making capabilities.
Additionally, he also called for enhanced defence systems across Europe to counter Russia’s growing use of drones and missiles.
“Such strikes demonstrate that the world’s sanctions on Russia must hit the aggressor much harder,” Zelenskiy stressed.
“Joint action is essential. Only through united and strong action can these terrorists be defeated,” he asked.
Changing Tactics
Ukrainian officials say the daylight attack reflects a shift in Russia’s tactics.
Unlike many previous strikes carried out under the cover of darkness, Tuesday’s assault was launched while the city centre was bustling with activity.
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Dnipro, a key industrial and business hub in southeastern Ukraine, has repeatedly been targeted since Russia began its full-scale invasion in 2022.
However, daytime strikes remain rare and are seen as an attempt to maximise psychological impact on civilians.
The attack adds to growing concerns over civilian safety as Russia intensifies its drone campaign against Ukraine’s cities.
Kyiv continues to appeal for more air defense systems from Western partners, warning that no country in Europe should face the threat alone.
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