An unmanned aerial vehicle launched by Russia toward the eastern Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia was intercepted but struck the Chesed Michael Jewish community complex, causing structural damage without injuries. The city, located about 25 kilometers from Russian forces, has faced intensified strikes in recent weeks amid escalating attacks on major urban areas.

Rabbi Nahum Ehrentreu, the city’s rabbi and emissary of the Chabad movement, said several damaged rooms did not have mezuzot affixed to their doors. He noted that hundreds of mezuzot have recently been distributed to local Jewish homes, adding that demand has grown even among non-Jews who view them as protective symbols.

Despite many community members fleeing since the war began, about 1,800 Jews remain out of a prewar population of roughly 5,000. Community leaders continue to hold daily prayer services and provide food, classes, and spiritual support. Jewish organizations in Ukraine condemned the strike and warned of a troubling rise in damage to religious institutions over the past year.