Zaporizhzhia, the largest city in southern Ukraine, has become a critical target for the Russian army this year, raising alarm among residents and local authorities. As Russian troops advance, they have come alarmingly close to the city, now just 20 kilometers away. This situation echoes the ongoing drone terror experienced in Kherson for the past two years, highlighting the escalating military threats faced by urban populations in Ukraine.

Local military officials and authorities have confirmed the increasing danger to Zaporizhzhia, with the city experiencing a rise in rocket, glide bomb, and drone attacks. Residents are growing increasingly aware of the dire situation, with public sentiment shifting towards a more somber recognition of the impending assaults. Notable local volunteer Ludmilla (Lucy) Volter, who has been assisting Ukrainian forces daily since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion four years ago, shares her grim outlook for her hometown, predicting an inevitable bombing campaign.

The implications of this danger are profound, as Zaporizhzhia is not only an industrial hub but also a significant population center. With the ongoing conflict, the potential for humanitarian crises increases, bringing attention to the challenges faced by civilians in war zones. The situation in Zaporizhzhia serves as a crucial indicator of the broader context of the war in Ukraine and the incessant threats posed by Russian military advancements, raising fears of further destabilization in the region.