Ukraine: Russian missile strikes in Zaporizhzhia kill at least 17 people early Oct. 9

Event

Russian forces launched multiple missiles into Zaporizhzhia at around 02:23 Oct. 9, killing at least 17 people and injuring four others. According to local officials, the strikes destroyed five homes and damaged another 40. Rescue operations are ongoing to find additional victims and clear the debris. Authorities may update casualty figures over the coming hours.

Further missile strikes are possible. Emergency services will likely continue to respond to the incident. Heightened security will be deployed and travel and business disruptions are likely to continue.

Advice

Avoid travel to active conflict zones in the Kharkiv, Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson regions of Ukraine; consider leaving these areas by available ground transport if safe to do so. Exercise extreme caution if operating anywhere in Ukraine. Shelter in place if there is fighting or airstrikes in the area. Stay away from windows and exterior walls if officials report incoming rocket or artillery fire. Follow the instructions of local security personnel, especially when instructed to seek refuge in air raid shelters. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations. Due to the threat of unexploded ordnance, avoid off-road travel. Travel on well-used routes only. Do not approach suspected unexploded ordnance. In areas previously occupied by Russian forces, be aware of booby traps