By COLlive reporter
A wave of intense missile and drone strikes across Ukraine overnight Wednesday into Thursday caused significant damage to the homes of Jewish families in several major cities.
In contrast to previous attacks that largely targeted infrastructure, this barrage included direct hits on residential areas. Dozens of Jewish homes were impacted, with shattered windows, structural damage, and destroyed vehicles—often essential for families navigating daily life under wartime conditions.
“Over the years, we haven’t experienced such a sustained wave of direct hits on homes within the community,” said Rabbi Simcha Levenhertz, a Chabad shliach in Kyiv and operations director of the JRNU relief network. “Many families found themselves facing severe damage. Windows were blown out from the force of the blasts, and vehicles, which are critical for basic survival, were heavily damaged. We are making sure they are not left alone and are providing immediate assistance for repairs and minimal recovery.”
One of the most alarming incidents occurred in Zaporizhzhia, where a drone struck the Chesed Michael community center, a key hub of Jewish humanitarian activity. At the time of the strike, dozens of people—including children and elderly individuals—were inside the building.
Rabbi Nachum Erentreu, the city’s rabbi and Shliach, described the outcome as nothing short of miraculous.
“There were many people inside,” he said. “Despite the force of the explosion and the extensive damage to the building, there were no injuries. Only recently, we installed new mezuzahs throughout the center, and we strongly feel that this brought protection. We give thanks to Hashem for His kindness.”
JRNU, which serves as a central welfare arm for Ukraine’s Jewish communities, has been coordinating closely with local shluchim to assess the damage and deliver rapid humanitarian aid. In several cities, shluchim are visiting affected families in person, evaluating their needs and providing immediate support.
“In cases where the damage is too severe to remain in their homes, families are being offered temporary relocation,” Rabbi Levenhertz added. “The Menorah Center in Dnipro has opened its doors, providing lodging, warm meals, and emotional support for those who have lost their sense of safety at home.”
Despite the ongoing danger, Chabad shluchim and volunteers continue to operate on the ground, working to stabilize families and restore a measure of security amid the uncertainty.
