A deadly Russian drone strike targeted the southern port city of Odesa overnight on June 28, killing a married couple and injuring at least 14 others, according to Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Why it matters
Odesa, a city of 1 million on the Black Sea, has become a recurring target of Russian attacks as Moscow intensifies aerial strikes on urban centers across Ukraine.
Driving the news
- The drone strike hit a 21-story residential building, igniting fires on the 7th, 8th, and 9th floors, Kyiv Independent reported.
- First responders rescued five residents, including a young child, trapped in the burning high-rise.
- Two people—a husband and wife—were killed in the attack, according to Odesa Oblast Governor Oleh Kiper, who confirmed emergency crews recovered their bodies from the rubble.
- At least 14 others, including three children, were injured and are currently receiving medical treatment.
- Air raid alarms throughout the night hampered rescue operations, Ukraine’s State Emergency Service said.
Zoom out
Russian missile and drone attacks have surged in recent months. A previous large-scale drone strike on June 20 also struck Odesa, killing one civilian and injuring 14 others, including three emergency workers.
What they’re saying
Context
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Odesa has remained a key strategic and symbolic target due to its coastal location, port infrastructure, and resistance to Kremlin-backed forces.