Russian strikes on the cities of Zaporozhye and Sloviansk have resulted in at least four deaths and multiple injuries, according to local authorities cited by Reuters. The attacks involved drones targeting civilian infrastructure, including residential buildings, a shopping center, and an educational facility. Sloviansk is strategically important as part of a defensive line, referred to as the “fortress belt,” intended to impede Russian advances. The strikes represent a continuation of ongoing hostilities in eastern Ukraine. Ukrainian officials have condemned the attacks as deliberate targeting of civilians. The extent of the damage is still being assessed, and rescue operations are underway. These attacks highlight the continued threat to civilian populations in the conflict zone.