A nighttime attack by Russian forces in Odesa has resulted in the deaths of a 75-year-old couple, as confirmed by the head of the city’s military administration, Serhiy Lysak, on April 24. The State Emergency Service had earlier reported two fatalities but did not disclose the identities of the victims.
In addition to the fatalities, 15 individuals sustained injuries, with eight currently receiving treatment in medical facilities. The State Emergency Service initially reported 14 injured, a figure echoed by Oleg Kiper, the head of the regional military administration, who noted that two of the injured have been hospitalized.
Lysak indicated that the Russian attack impacted residential areas and a commercial vessel in Odesa. He stated, “As a result of drone strikes, at least three residential buildings suffered significant damage. Apartments were destroyed, facades were damaged, and windows were shattered. Additionally, a drone strike was recorded on a commercial ship flying the flag of Saint Kitts and Nevis, which was en route to one of the ports in Greater Odesa. A fire broke out on board but was quickly extinguished by the crew, and there were no reported injuries from this incident.”
Russian military forces have been consistently targeting Ukrainian cities and civilian infrastructure using various weapons, including drones, missiles, and artillery systems.
Ukrainian authorities and international organizations categorize these attacks as war crimes committed by the Russian Federation, emphasizing their deliberate nature. The bombardments on essential services and healthcare facilities aim to deprive civilians of electricity, heating, water supply, communication, medical assistance, and other vital living conditions, which some officials describe as genocidal actions.
The Russian leadership denies that its military is intentionally striking civilian infrastructure, claiming that it does not target towns and villages, nor does it kill civilians or destroy hospitals, schools, kindergartens, and facilities related to energy and water supply.
A recent Russian strike in Odesa has left a couple dead and numerous others injured, highlighting ongoing attacks on civilian infrastructure in Ukraine. Authorities classify these actions as war crimes, while Russia denies targeting civilians.