The mayor of Odesa, a southern Ukrainian city, has characterized Russia’s recent aerial assault on the region as “one of the most horrible nights” witnessed during the ongoing war. Mayor Hennadii Trukhanov conveyed his concerns via Facebook, emphasizing the unprecedented scale of the attack since the beginning of the full-scale invasion.
While there were no reported casualties, the city experienced intense explosions, and several individuals sustained injuries due to a downed Russian missile. Trukhanov expressed gratitude for the city’s air defense system and acknowledged the fierce air battle that took place during the attack, highlighting the resilience and determination of the local population.
CNN journalists present in Odesa reported hearing a significant bombardment at around 2 a.m. local time. Ukraine’s Air Force confirmed that Russia targeted Odesa for the second consecutive night, launching a barrage of cruise missiles and employing Shahed attack drones.
The assaults on Odesa, a Black Sea port city, occurred shortly after Moscow’s withdrawal from a critical UN-brokered grain deal, which drew condemnation from Ukraine, the United States, and their allies. In a Telegram post, Oleh Kiper, the head of the Odesa regional military administration, revealed that fires had broken out following Russian strikes on a grain and oil terminal, as well as other industrial facilities.
Among those affected, several civilians, including a 9-year-old boy, sustained injuries after air defenses successfully intercepted and downed a cruise missile.
The harrowing attack on Odesa underscores the escalating tensions and the human toll inflicted by the ongoing conflict, highlighting the urgent need for international attention and concerted efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.
