Russian attack on Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia kills seven as war intensifies

Investing.com -- A Russian airstrike on Ukraine’s southern city of Zaporizhzhia killed at least seven people and wounded 10 others on Saturday, regional officials said, as Moscow intensified attacks across Ukraine ahead of winter.

Regional governor Mykhailo Semikin said the early-morning bombardment struck several locations simultaneously, leaving residents trapped beneath collapsed buildings as emergency crews searched the rubble.

Three children were among those killed when Russian aerial bombs struck residential buildings, according to Ukrainian officials.

The latest casualties add to mounting civilian losses from Russian strikes across Ukraine, with more than 55 people reportedly killed over the preceding four days.

Russian forces have also stepped up attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, triggering electricity outages and disrupting essential services as temperatures begin to fall.

Ukraine has responded with drone strikes against Russian infrastructure, including oil facilities, as both countries continue targeting assets linked to their respective war efforts.

The latest bombardment came shortly after US President Donald Trump announced an agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin to supply Russian diesel to American and global markets.

Trump said Russia would initially provide more than 300,000 tonnes of diesel, followed by additional shipments intended to ease fuel prices.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticised the agreement, warning that additional Russian energy revenues could help finance Moscow’s military campaign.

The announcement coincided with negotiations in Miami involving US, Ukrainian and European representatives seeking a framework for ending the conflict.

The Kremlin said Friday that Putin considered an immediate resumption of peace negotiations unlikely, citing Ukrainian drone attacks on Moscow during Russia’s parliamentary elections.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the conflict as a dangerous stalemate, although Washington said it would continue diplomatic efforts.

The renewed fighting and diplomatic uncertainty come as Ukraine prepares for another winter of attacks on its power and heating systems.