Search and rescue operations are entering their third day in the settlement of Kamyshevakha, Zaporizhzhia region, following a massive Russian airstrike. According to RBC-Ukraine, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated this in his Telegram channel. He reported that the death toll has reached 40 people, with some bodies yet to be identified, while preliminary data suggests over 30 more people may remain trapped under the rubble of destroyed buildings.
Three Days Under the Rubble
Zelenskyy recalled that the Russians dropped nine aerial bombs during the strike: first hitting people who had gathered to receive humanitarian aid, and subsequently targeting the rescue workers and police who arrived at the scene. He noted that the operation to clear the rubble and search for survivors is taking place under the constant threat of new Russian strikes, significantly complicating the work of emergency services on site.
Death Toll Dynamics
The casualty figures grew as rescue operations progressed. At a press conference with German Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz on November 3, Zelenskyy cited 33 dead and over 50 people under the rubble; later, RBC-Ukraine reported 37 dead. The head of state's updated assessment as of November 4 is 40 dead and over 30 missing under the debris. Earlier, on November 3, 58 people were considered missing in Kamyshevakha.
What is Known About the Strike
According to available data, Russia struck Kamyshevakha twice with aerial bombs: the attack hit a school where humanitarian aid was being distributed at the time, as well as an underground shelter. Ukrainian sources point to the use of guided aerial bombs, including FAB-3000, whose direct hit caused the concrete structure of the building to collapse. The Russian side, in turn, published a video recording of the bomb hitting the school building.
Reaction and Appeals
Commenting on the international community's reaction, Zelenskyy noted that it turned out to be "very weak" regarding this attack, and called for a "strong reaction" as well as timely support for Ukraine with air defense systems. According to local authorities, three days of mourning have been declared in the Zaporizhzhia region due to the deaths of civilians.
