At least eight people were killed in the Ukrainian port city of Odesa as Russian forces continued sustained attacks on the southern region, according to local authorities. The latest assault underscores the ongoing vulnerability of civilian areas as the conflict shows no signs of easing.
Officials said the strikes hit residential neighborhoods and nearby infrastructure, causing widespread destruction. Emergency crews worked through debris to rescue survivors, while damaged buildings burned into the night. Several people were also reported injured, with hospitals placed on high alert amid fears of further attacks.
Odesa, a key cultural and economic hub along the Black Sea, has repeatedly come under fire since the war began. In this latest incident, explosions were heard across multiple districts, prompting air raid sirens and forcing residents to seek shelter. Authorities said some of the victims were trapped in collapsed structures, highlighting the heavy impact on civilians.
Ukraine’s military stated that air defense systems were activated, but not all incoming missiles or drones were intercepted. Officials accused Russia of deliberately targeting civilian zones, a claim Moscow has consistently denied, maintaining that its strikes are aimed at military objectives.
The attack also caused damage to energy and transport infrastructure, leading to temporary power disruptions in parts of the city. Local officials warned that repair efforts may take days as security conditions remain unstable.
President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the strikes, calling them further evidence of Russia’s campaign against civilian life. He renewed appeals for additional air defense support from international partners, emphasizing that stronger protection is critical for cities like Odesa that face frequent bombardment.
As residents mourn the dead, the atmosphere in Odesa remains tense. Schools and public institutions adjusted schedules, and many families are once again grappling with displacement and uncertainty. Humanitarian groups say continued attacks on urban centers are worsening psychological trauma and stretching emergency resources.
With fighting ongoing across multiple fronts, the latest bloodshed in Odesa highlights the relentless toll of the war on Ukraine’s civilian population and the growing urgency of diplomatic and military efforts to prevent further loss of life.
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