An airstrike struck the city of Druzhkivka in Ukraine's Donetsk region, causing significant damage to civilian infrastructure. Multiple injuries and possible fatalities have been reported. Ukrainian officials blame Russian forces for the attack, calling for international condemnation and humanitarian assistance.

Airstrike Hits Druzhkivka in Donetsk Region, Civilian Casualties Feared

Druzhkivka, Donetsk Region – July 25, 2025 — A deadly airstrike struck the city of Druzhkivka in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region earlier today, in what local officials describe as one of the most severe attacks on the city in recent months. Preliminary reports indicate multiple civilian structures were damaged, with injuries and possible fatalities reported.

The strike reportedly occurred just before 10:00 AM local time, targeting what appeared to be civilian infrastructure in the center of Druzhkivka, a city that has seen an uptick in military activity amid ongoing tensions and conflict in eastern Ukraine. The Ukrainian Armed Forces have not confirmed whether any military assets were present in the vicinity at the time of the attack.

Extensive Damage to Civilian Infrastructure

Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and destruction in the aftermath of the blast. Several residential buildings, a school, and a local marketplace are believed to have sustained significant damage. Emergency services rushed to the scene as thick plumes of smoke were seen rising from the impact site.

“At least three apartment buildings have been partially destroyed,” said Oksana Myronova, a local emergency services spokesperson. “Our rescue teams are working around the clock to search for survivors under the rubble. We fear there may be civilians trapped inside.”

Initial reports suggest that at least 10 people were injured, with unconfirmed accounts of fatalities. Hospitals in nearby Kramatorsk have been put on alert, and ambulances from surrounding towns have been dispatched to assist.

Ukrainian Authorities Condemn Attack

Ukrainian military and political leaders quickly condemned the attack, accusing Russian forces of deliberately targeting civilian areas — a violation of international humanitarian law.

“This was a cruel and calculated act of aggression,” said Pavlo Kyrylenko, head of the Donetsk Regional Military Administration. “The Russian military continues to terrorize our civilian population with no regard for human life. The international community must respond decisively.”

Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense has stated that it is conducting an investigation into the strike and has called on international observers and humanitarian organizations to assist in documenting the incident.

Russian Response and Escalating Tensions

As of this writing, Russian officials have not issued a statement regarding the airstrike. In previous incidents, Moscow has often denied targeting civilians, instead claiming that strikes are aimed at military infrastructure or defensive positions.

The airstrike comes amid escalating hostilities along the frontlines in Donetsk, where Ukrainian and Russian forces have been locked in intense battles over key strategic positions. Druzhkivka, located near major transport routes, has increasingly found itself in the crosshairs.

Humanitarian Concerns Grow

Humanitarian organizations have expressed alarm at the growing toll on civilians in eastern Ukraine. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has called for an immediate ceasefire to allow aid workers to reach affected populations.

“Today’s attack is another tragic reminder of the urgent need for peace,” said a statement from the UN humanitarian coordinator in Ukraine. “We call for unrestricted humanitarian access to Druzhkivka and other affected communities.”

Local authorities have urged residents to remain in shelters and avoid unnecessary travel as search-and-rescue operations continue. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed.