Russian Strike Kills 11 in Donetsk Region, Rescuers Targeted in 'Double-Tap' Attack

On the evening of March 7, Russian forces launched a missile strike on the center of Dobropillia, Donetsk region, resulting in at least 11 fatalities and injuring more than 30 people, including five children. The attack caused significant damage to residential buildings and infrastructure.

According to Ukraine’s State Emergency Service (SES), the strike hit eight five-story residential buildings, an administrative facility, and approximately 30 vehicles. Fires broke out in multiple locations, including residential apartments and public buildings. Emergency responders were deployed to contain the fires and assist victims.

During firefighting efforts, Russian forces carried out a secondary strike, reportedly using a Shahed drone, which damaged a fire truck. Despite the risk of further attacks, emergency teams continued their operations, extinguishing fires in 20 apartments and covering an area of 190 square meters.

Law enforcement agencies reported that the attack involved a combination of ballistic missiles, multiple launch rocket systems, and drones. Initial reports indicated five fatalities and 15 injuries, but the numbers increased as rescue operations progressed. Ukrainian officials stated that three ballistic missiles were used in the attack, and the targeting of first responders reflects a deliberate strategy frequently employed in Russian strikes.

The regional prosecutor’s office confirmed that among the injured were children aged 9, 10, 11, 14, and 17.

Following the attack on Dobropillia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that such strikes demonstrate Russia’s continued objectives in its military campaign. He emphasized the need for enhanced air defense systems and additional sanctions to counteract Russia’s ability to sustain the war.

Earlier on March 7, Russia launched a large-scale missile and drone attack across multiple Ukrainian regions, targeting energy infrastructure, residential areas, and industrial sites. Strikes hit gas facilities in Poltava and Ternopil, an industrial site in Chernihiv, and civilian infrastructure in Kharkiv, leaving several injured. Ukraine’s Energy Minister confirmed efforts to restore power and gas supplies, while air defenses intercepted some incoming missiles.