Russia on Sunday (September 3) launched a 3.5-hour-long drone attack in Ukraine's Odesa, hitting Danube River port infrastructure and injuring at least two people.

Russia on Sunday (September 3) launched a 3.5-hour-long drone attack in Ukraine's Odesa, hitting Danube River port infrastructure and injuring at least two people. Meanwhile, Russia said it hit targets on the Danube port of Reni, on the border with NATO member Romania. Russia hits Ukraine's Danube port on Romanian border According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the Ukrainian Air Force said that its air defence systems shot down 22 of the 25 Iranian-made Shahed drones that Russia launched on the Odesa region in the early hours of Sunday. "Russian terrorists continue to attack port infrastructure in the hope of provoking a food crisis and famine in the world," the Ukrainian president's chief of staff Andriy Yermak wrote on Telegram and posted a photograph of a firefighter directing water at the burning ruins of concrete structures. In a statement, the Russian army said it "carried out a group drone strike on fuel storage facilities used to supply military equipment of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the port of Reni, in the Odesa region." It added, "All designated targets were hit." Romania 'strongly condemns' attack on Danube After the attack, Romanian defence ministry released a statement and strongly condemned repeated Russian attacks on Ukraine's Danube port and called it "unjustified". The "reiterates in the strongest terms that these attacks against civilian targets and infrastructure in Ukraine are unjustified and in deep contradiction with the rules of international humanitarian law". It added, "At no time did the means of attack used by the Russian Federation generate any direct military threat to the national territory or territorial waters of Romania." Two killed in biggest Russian strike in Kyiv in months Sunday's drone attack came three days after Russia launched its biggest airstrike in Kyiv in months, killing two people. Reuters reported three people were wounded in the strike and combat drones attacked infrastructure in the central region of Zhytomyr. "The blast wave broke all the windows, the entry doors are broken too. We were terribly scared," said Liudmyla Savchuk, a 57-year-old teacher whose apartment in northwestern Kyiv was damaged. "Then there was another explosion in a couple of seconds, 20 or 30 seconds. We're cleaning everything now," Savchuk added. Russia has conducted regular, but smaller, air strikes on Kyiv this summer, and hit the Ukrainian capital with large-scale aerial attacks in May. "Kyiv has not experienced such a powerful attack since spring. The enemy launched a massive, combined attack using drones and missiles," Serhiy Popko, the head of the city's military administration said on Telegram. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine claims it downed 22 Shahed drones as Russia hits port on Romania border; 2 injured

Odesa, the Ukrainian city on the Black Sea officially opened several beaches for public on Saturday (August 12) for the first time since the start of the Russian invasion. However, bathing is banned during air raid alerts. Odesa is Ukraine's largest port and naval base. It has in past, come under repeated attacks from Russian missiles and drones. The sea was littered with hundreds of thousands of sea mines.

For the safety of residents and after incidents of mines exploding on beaches, the coast was closed.

The city's civilian and military administrations took a joint decision to open beaches, according to Odesa Governor Oleh Kiper who wrote on Telegram app.

Kiper said the beaches would remain open from 8 am to 8 pm.

Reuters quoted Oleksandr, a lifeguard and a former diver, who said that anti-mine net was placed in between two piers to prevent swimmers encountering shallow-water mines.

"The net will stop them. And they (mines) will also be visible from the shore under such weather conditions. Emergency workers will be notified, they will come to handle it," he said.

The opening of the beaches has been a welcome respite from the war for people swimming and sunbathing.

"I have been dreaming of going to the beach and inhaling salty air. We have been missing it a lot. But safety is a top priority," said Svitlana, a resident of the Odesa region.

<h2>Russia claims downing 20 Ukrainian drones</h2>

Meanwhile, Russia said on Saturday that it had shot down 20 unmanned Ukrainian drones near the Crimean peninsula. The Russian defence ministry said on Telegram messaging service that 14 drones were downed by air defence systems and six more were shot down using electronic warfare.

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The ministry said that there were no casualties or damage.

Governor of Kaluga region, about 150 kilometres southwest of Moscow said that a drone was also intercepted in the region.&nbsp;

On Friday officials in Moscow said that they had destroyed a drone that was targetting the Russian capital. The attack was latest in series of attacks on Moscow in recent days.

In July, Ukrainian drone strikes on Crimea blew up an ammunition depot and damaged the bridge across the Kerch Strait linking the peninsula to Russia's mainland.

Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014.

In Ukraine, Russian attacks on Saturday killed a policeman and injured 12 other people in the southern Zaporizhzhia region.

A man was also killed in the Kharkiv region, according to local authorities.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Odesa, the Ukrainian city on the Black Sea officially opened several beaches for public on Saturday (August 12) for the first time since the start of the Russian invasion.

Odesa, the Ukrainian city on the Black Sea officially opened several beaches for public on Saturday (August 12) for the first time since the start of the Russian invasion. However, bathing is banned during air raid alerts. Odesa is Ukraine's largest port and naval base. It has in past, come under repeated attacks from Russian missiles and drones. The sea was littered with hundreds of thousands of sea mines. For the safety of residents and after incidents of mines exploding on beaches, the coast was closed. The city's civilian and military administrations took a joint decision to open beaches, according to Odesa Governor Oleh Kiper who wrote on Telegram app. Kiper said the beaches would remain open from 8 am to 8 pm. Reuters quoted Oleksandr, a lifeguard and a former diver, who said that anti-mine net was placed in between two piers to prevent swimmers encountering shallow-water mines. "The net will stop them. And they (mines) will also be visible from the shore under such weather conditions. Emergency workers will be notified, they will come to handle it," he said. The opening of the beaches has been a welcome respite from the war for people swimming and sunbathing. "I have been dreaming of going to the beach and inhaling salty air. We have been missing it a lot. But safety is a top priority," said Svitlana, a resident of the Odesa region. Russia claims downing 20 Ukrainian drones Meanwhile, Russia said on Saturday that it had shot down 20 unmanned Ukrainian drones near the Crimean peninsula. The Russian defence ministry said on Telegram messaging service that 14 drones were downed by air defence systems and six more were shot down using electronic warfare. Also Read | Egypt's resistance to supply weapons to Ukraine poses challenge for Biden administration: Report The ministry said that there were no casualties or damage. Governor of Kaluga region, about 150 kilometres southwest of Moscow said that a drone was also intercepted in the region. On Friday officials in Moscow said that they had destroyed a drone that was targetting the Russian capital. The attack was latest in series of attacks on Moscow in recent days. In July, Ukrainian drone strikes on Crimea blew up an ammunition depot and damaged the bridge across the Kerch Strait linking the peninsula to Russia's mainland. Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014. In Ukraine, Russian attacks on Saturday killed a policeman and injured 12 other people in the southern Zaporizhzhia region. A man was also killed in the Kharkiv region, according to local authorities. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine: Odesa opens beaches to public for first time since Russian invasion

An official and the military in the Ukrainian region on the Black Sea said on Monday (August 14) that during the overnight hours, Russia launched two waves of drone and missile attacks on the port city of Odesa, injuring at least three.&nbsp;

The governor, Oleh Kiper, said on the Telegram messaging app: "As a result of the enemy attack in Odesa, several fires broke out from falling rocket fragments. Windows in buildings were blown out by the blast wave."&nbsp;

The region of Odesa has remained a flashpoint ever since the war started last year in February. It is home to maritime terminals that were key to the expired grain export agreement between Moscow and Kyiv.&nbsp;

Ukraine's armed forces command in the south claimed that its air defence forces destroyed all 15 drones and eight Kalibr-type sea-based missiles that Russia launched at the port.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/act-of-piracy-ukraine-hits-back-at-moscow-for-seizing-cargo-vessel-625154">'Act of piracy...': Ukraine hits back at Moscow for 'forced boarding' of cargo vessel</a>&nbsp;

Local reports mentioned that a dormitory and a supermarket were damaged by falling missile debris. Images and videos shared by Ukrainian officials show firefighters battling a big blaze.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the port city of Mykolaiv, closer to Odesa, was also targeted, with air alarms sounding throughout the night.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.&nbsp;

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Odesa, 🇺🇦 largest port and naval base, has endured another night of air attacks. The nearby port city of Mykolaiv was also targeted. We are desperate for more air defense systems. 
 
Video: State Emergency Service of Ukraine <a href="https://t.co/Tq06SZFlZf">pic.twitter.com/Tq06SZFlZf</a>
— Kira Rudik (@kiraincongress) <a href="https://twitter.com/kiraincongress/status/1690989524975841280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Odesa. Strikes of civilian objects. A store is hit... 
 
No comments. 
 
Russians are insane terrorists. <a href="https://t.co/bCVoZSBryn">pic.twitter.com/bCVoZSBryn</a>
— Andriy Yermak (@AndriyYermak) <a href="https://twitter.com/AndriyYermak/status/1690980206683541504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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This night russia decided that the biggest threat to its existence is this supermarket in Odesa <a href="https://t.co/pd6olbjiuu">pic.twitter.com/pd6olbjiuu</a>
— Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz) <a href="https://twitter.com/reshetz/status/1690967161198501888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Ukraine recaptured 3sqkm around Bakhmut</h2>

Ukraine also claimed on Monday that its forces recaptured a small clutch of territory around the war-battered town of Bakhmut in the east of the country last week.&nbsp;

Mentioning Ukraine's counteroffensive in June, Deputy Defence Minister Ganna Malyar told state television: "In the Bakhmut sector, three square kilometres [1.2 square miles] were liberated last week. In total, 40 square kilometres have been liberated on the southern flank of the Bakhmut sector."&nbsp;

<h2>Zelensky vows&nbsp;retaliation&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that there will be "completely fair retaliation" after Russian shelling killed at least seven people, including a newborn baby, in the southern Kherson region Sunday.&nbsp;

In his daily address on Sunday: "Everywhere our warriors retaliate against the occupiers' terror. There is not a single day when Russian evil does not get our completely fair retaliation."&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

(With inputs from agencies)

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An official and the military in the Ukrainian region on the Black Sea said on Monday (August 14) that during the overnight hours, Russia launched two waves of drone and missile attacks on the port city of Odesa, injuring at least three.

An official and the military in the Ukrainian region on the Black Sea said on Monday (August 14) that during the overnight hours, Russia launched two waves of drone and missile attacks on the port city of Odesa, injuring at least three. The governor, Oleh Kiper, said on the Telegram messaging app: "As a result of the enemy attack in Odesa, several fires broke out from falling rocket fragments. Windows in buildings were blown out by the blast wave." The region of Odesa has remained a flashpoint ever since the war started last year in February. It is home to maritime terminals that were key to the expired grain export agreement between Moscow and Kyiv. Ukraine's armed forces command in the south claimed that its air defence forces destroyed all 15 drones and eight Kalibr-type sea-based missiles that Russia launched at the port. Also read: 'Act of piracy...': Ukraine hits back at Moscow for 'forced boarding' of cargo vessel Local reports mentioned that a dormitory and a supermarket were damaged by falling missile debris. Images and videos shared by Ukrainian officials show firefighters battling a big blaze. Meanwhile, the port city of Mykolaiv, closer to Odesa, was also targeted, with air alarms sounding throughout the night. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Odesa, 🇺🇦 largest port and naval base, has endured another night of air attacks. The nearby port city of Mykolaiv was also targeted. We are desperate for more air defense systems. Video: State Emergency Service of Ukraine pic.twitter.com/Tq06SZFlZf — Kira Rudik (@kiraincongress) August 14, 2023 × Odesa. Strikes of civilian objects. A store is hit... No comments. Russians are insane terrorists. pic.twitter.com/bCVoZSBryn — Andriy Yermak (@AndriyYermak) August 14, 2023 × This night russia decided that the biggest threat to its existence is this supermarket in Odesa pic.twitter.com/pd6olbjiuu — Mira of Kyiv 🇺🇦 (@reshetz) August 14, 2023 × Ukraine recaptured 3sqkm around Bakhmut Ukraine also claimed on Monday that its forces recaptured a small clutch of territory around the war-battered town of Bakhmut in the east of the country last week. Mentioning Ukraine's counteroffensive in June, Deputy Defence Minister Ganna Malyar told state television: "In the Bakhmut sector, three square kilometres [1.2 square miles] were liberated last week. In total, 40 square kilometres have been liberated on the southern flank of the Bakhmut sector." Zelensky vows retaliation Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that there will be "completely fair retaliation" after Russian shelling killed at least seven people, including a newborn baby, in the southern Kherson region Sunday. In his daily address on Sunday: "Everywhere our warriors retaliate against the occupiers' terror. There is not a single day when Russian evil does not get our completely fair retaliation." Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russian attack on Odesa injures 3, Ukraine claims to have recaptured 3sq km around Bakhmut

Russian drone strikes on the Ukrainian city of Odesa continued, damaging the port infrastructure including grain silos, the regional Governor Oleg Kiper said on Wednesday (Aug 2).&nbsp;

"The enemy's obvious target was the port and industrial infrastructure of the region. Air defence forces worked non-stop for almost 3 hours,"&nbsp;said Oleg on Telegram, adding that emergency services had responded to the scene and that there were no reports of casualties.&nbsp;

“As a result of the attack, fires broke out at the facilities of the port and industrial infrastructure of the region, and an elevator was damaged."

According to senior Ukrainian officials, over the past fortnight, Russia has damaged&nbsp;dozens of port infrastructure facilities and multiple civilian vessels. Last month, a Chinese consulate in the port&nbsp;city was also damaged by the Russian strikes.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-consulate-damaged-by-russian-strike-in-port-city-of-odesa-reports-617817" target="_blank">Also read | Chinese consulate damaged by Russian strike in port city of Odesa: Reports</a>

Apart from the port city, the capital Kyiv was also attacked by Russian drones in the early hours of Wednesday. Mayor Vitali Klitschko said drone debris had fallen in the central&nbsp;Solomianskyi district and that a non-residential building had been damaged.

"Groups of drones entered Kyiv simultaneously from several directions. However, all air targets -- more than 10 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) -- were detected and destroyed in time by the forces and means of air defence," said&nbsp;Sergiy Popko, head of the city's military administration, adding that Russia used a barrage of Iranian-made Shahed drones.&nbsp;

The attacks come a day after Russia said it had thwarted a wave of Ukrainian drones targeting Moscow, Crimea and vessels in the Black Sea. A skyscraper in the city's financial district was struck for the second time in days.&nbsp;

Watch: Ukrainian president aide admits counteroffensive will take long

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<h2>Russia has upped the ante</h2>

Ever since Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal earlier this month, attacks have intensified on Ukrainian cities.&nbsp;

The deal granted safe passage to Ukrainian cargo ships carrying grain shipments. However, since the cancellation, Russia has said it was keeping a close tab on the Ukrainian vessels and would consider them as&nbsp;potential military targets.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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Russian drone strikes on the Ukrainian city of Odesa continued, damaging the port infrastructure including grain silos, the regional Governor Oleg Kiper said on Wednesday (Aug 2).

Russian drone strikes on the Ukrainian city of Odesa continued, damaging the port infrastructure including grain silos, the regional Governor Oleg Kiper said on Wednesday (Aug 2). "The enemy's obvious target was the port and industrial infrastructure of the region. Air defence forces worked non-stop for almost 3 hours," said Oleg on Telegram, adding that emergency services had responded to the scene and that there were no reports of casualties. “As a result of the attack, fires broke out at the facilities of the port and industrial infrastructure of the region, and an elevator was damaged." According to senior Ukrainian officials, over the past fortnight, Russia has damaged dozens of port infrastructure facilities and multiple civilian vessels. Last month, a Chinese consulate in the port city was also damaged by the Russian strikes. Also read | Chinese consulate damaged by Russian strike in port city of Odesa: Reports Apart from the port city, the capital Kyiv was also attacked by Russian drones in the early hours of Wednesday. Mayor Vitali Klitschko said drone debris had fallen in the central Solomianskyi district and that a non-residential building had been damaged. "Groups of drones entered Kyiv simultaneously from several directions. However, all air targets -- more than 10 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) -- were detected and destroyed in time by the forces and means of air defence," said Sergiy Popko, head of the city's military administration, adding that Russia used a barrage of Iranian-made Shahed drones. The attacks come a day after Russia said it had thwarted a wave of Ukrainian drones targeting Moscow, Crimea and vessels in the Black Sea. A skyscraper in the city's financial district was struck for the second time in days. Watch: Ukrainian president aide admits counteroffensive will take long Russia has upped the ante Ever since Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal earlier this month, attacks have intensified on Ukrainian cities. The deal granted safe passage to Ukrainian cargo ships carrying grain shipments. However, since the cancellation, Russia has said it was keeping a close tab on the Ukrainian vessels and would consider them as potential military targets. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ukraine war: Russia pounds port, silos in Odesa again; drone debris found in Kyiv

Russian strikes on the Ukrainian city of Odesa continued overnight as missiles targeted the port infrastructure, the region's governor said on Thursday (July 27).

Russian strikes on the Ukrainian city of Odesa continued overnight as missiles targeted the port infrastructure, the region's governor said on Thursday (July 27). Ever since Russia pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal earlier this month, attacks have intensified on Ukrainian cities. According to Governor Oleg Kiper, one person died in the overnight attacks where Caliber missiles were used. "At night, [Russia] launched a missile attack on the Odesa region. The target of the aggressor is the port infrastructure. The Russians fired Caliber missiles from a submarine in the Black Sea," wrote Kiper on Telegram. "A civil guard born in 1979 died as a result of the hit. The equipment of one of the cargo terminals was damaged, and a security building and two cars were destroyed. Sincere condolences to the family of the deceased." Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Ukraine's southern military command said an overnight thunderstorm aided the Russian side in launching the attack. "The enemy took advantage of the weather conditions, and launched the missile during the thunder and wind and at an extremely low height in order to make spotting them more difficult," said the spokesperson. According to senior Ukrainian officials, over the past nine days, Russia has damaged 26 port infrastructure facilities and five civilian vessels. Last week, a Chinese consulate in the port city was also damaged by the Russian strikes. Watch: Ukrainian president aide admits counteroffensive will take long Russia treating cargo vessels as hostile After pulling out of the deal which granted safe passage to cargo ships carrying grain shipments, Russia said it was keeping a close tab on the Ukrainian vessels, and would consider them as potential military targets. Notably, on Thursday, Russia's FSB security service turned away a cargo ship bound for the port of Rostov-on-Don after finding "traces of explosives" on it. Also read | Chinese consulate damaged by Russian strike in port city of Odesa: Reports The FSB stated the ship was coming from Turkey and had previously sailed to the Ukrainian port of Reni. "A decision was taken to prevent the ship's passage under the shipping arch of the Kerch Strait and it has been turned back from Russian territorial waters," it added. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia continues to pound Odesa with overnight missile attacks, kills one

UNESCO on Sunday released a statement condemning Russia's "brazen" attack on Ukraine's Odesa, which targeted many sites in the port city's World Heritage Centre.

"UNESCO is deeply dismayed and condemns in the strongest terms the brazen attack carried out by the Russian forces, which hit several cultural sites in the city centre of Odesa, home to the World Heritage property 'The Historic Centre of Odesa'", the Paris-based body said in a statement.

The Russian strike, which is also the latest attack on the Black Sea city and one of Ukraine's most important ports after Moscow pulled out of a grain deal that allowed Kyiv to export its grain, claimed the lives of at least two people.

UNESCO chief Audrey Azoulay said the attack marked "an escalation of violence against (the) cultural heritage of Ukraine".

The strike damaged the Transfiguration Cathedral, originally built in 1794 under imperial Russian rule, demolished under Soviet leader Stalin in 1936 and rebuilt in the 1990s following the Soviet Union collapse.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-meets-lukashenko-first-time-since-wagner-mutiny-618606">Putin meets Lukashenko for first time since Wagner mutiny</a>

<h2>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vows retaliation</h2>

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (July 23) vowed "retaliation" against Russia after the historic port of Odesa was attacked by Moscow with projectiles, claiming the lives of two people and damaging an Orthodox cathedral. &nbsp;

"Missiles against peaceful cities, against residential buildings, a cathedral. There will definitely be retaliation against Russian terrorists for Odesa. They will feel this retaliation," Zelensky said.&nbsp;

Ukraine released a statement saying that 19 missiles were launched by Russia on Odesa overnight.

At least two people lost their lives and 19 others suffered injuries, which included four children as residential and religious infrastructure suffered damage in an attack, informed the governor of the region on Sunday (July 23).

"Odesa: another night attack of the monsters. Unfortunately, we have one civilian killed as a result of the nighttime terrorist attack by Russians on Odesa," said Oleg Kiper on Telegram. Earlier, he had said that there were "18 victims, including four children," in an attack launched by Russia at 3:00 am (0000 GMT).

"Fourteen people were hospitalised in the city's hospitals, three of them were children," he stated. He added that the attack also led to "damage to civilian infrastructure, residential buildings and a religious institution".

(With inputs from agencies)

 
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UNESCO on Sunday released a statement condemning Russia's "brazen" attack on Ukraine's Odesa, which targeted many sites in the port city's World Heritage Centre.

UNESCO on Sunday released a statement condemning Russia's "brazen" attack on Ukraine's Odesa, which targeted many sites in the port city's World Heritage Centre. "UNESCO is deeply dismayed and condemns in the strongest terms the brazen attack carried out by the Russian forces, which hit several cultural sites in the city centre of Odesa, home to the World Heritage property 'The Historic Centre of Odesa'", the Paris-based body said in a statement. The Russian strike, which is also the latest attack on the Black Sea city and one of Ukraine's most important ports after Moscow pulled out of a grain deal that allowed Kyiv to export its grain, claimed the lives of at least two people. UNESCO chief Audrey Azoulay said the attack marked "an escalation of violence against (the) cultural heritage of Ukraine". The strike damaged the Transfiguration Cathedral, originally built in 1794 under imperial Russian rule, demolished under Soviet leader Stalin in 1936 and rebuilt in the 1990s following the Soviet Union collapse. Also read: Putin meets Lukashenko for first time since Wagner mutiny Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vows retaliation Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (July 23) vowed "retaliation" against Russia after the historic port of Odesa was attacked by Moscow with projectiles, claiming the lives of two people and damaging an Orthodox cathedral. "Missiles against peaceful cities, against residential buildings, a cathedral. There will definitely be retaliation against Russian terrorists for Odesa. They will feel this retaliation," Zelensky said. Ukraine released a statement saying that 19 missiles were launched by Russia on Odesa overnight. At least two people lost their lives and 19 others suffered injuries, which included four children as residential and religious infrastructure suffered damage in an attack, informed the governor of the region on Sunday (July 23). "Odesa: another night attack of the monsters. Unfortunately, we have one civilian killed as a result of the nighttime terrorist attack by Russians on Odesa," said Oleg Kiper on Telegram. Earlier, he had said that there were "18 victims, including four children," in an attack launched by Russia at 3:00 am (0000 GMT). "Fourteen people were hospitalised in the city's hospitals, three of them were children," he stated. He added that the attack also led to "damage to civilian infrastructure, residential buildings and a religious institution". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UNESCO condemns Russia's 'brazen' strike on Odesa

Ukraine on Monday (July 24) claimed that Russia launched an overnight drone attack on port infrastructure in the Odesa region due to which a grain hangar was destroyed.

The Ukrainian military claimed that the drones used in the attack, which lasted for hours, were of Iranian origin, and added that Kyiv’s air defence retaliated and downed the Shahed drones.

“Tonight, an almost four-hour attack by ‘Shahed-136’ drones was directed at the port infrastructure of the Danube” in the Odesa region, Ukraine’s southern military command said on Telegram.

<h2>No casualties&nbsp;</h2>

“As a result of the strikes,&nbsp;a grain hangar&nbsp;was destroyed, tanks for storing other types of cargo were damaged.”

So far, no casualties have been reported, the military added.

“According to initial reports, about four workers of the port were injured, but the information is still being clarified,” it said.

<h2>Attacks on Odesa rises&nbsp;</h2>

Ever since Russia pulled out of the key grain deal with Ukraine last week that allowed safe passage of Ukrainian grain on the Black Sea, there has been a rise in attacks on the Odesa region.

Russia declared that it would consider any ships heading for Ukrainian grain ports on the Black Sea as military targets.

Kyiv has accused Russia of targeting grain supplies and infrastructure vital to any resumption of Ukrainian grain exports.

<h2>Drone strikes hit two buildings in Moscow, Russia blames Ukraine for 'terrorist attack'</h2>

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<h2>Drone attacks on Moscow&nbsp;</h2>

The development comes hours after Russia accused Ukraine of launching drone attacks in which&nbsp;two buildings were damaged early Monday morning in the capital Moscow.

The Russian defence ministry alleged that two drones were "suppressed and crashed", adding that there were no casualties.

Russia's state-owned Tass news agency reported that one drone fell close to the defence ministry.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-want-to-putin-says-moscow-will-replace-ukrainian-grain-shipments-to-africa-618740">'I want to...': Putin says Moscow will replace Ukrainian grain shipments to Africa</a>

Moscow’s Mayor Sergei Sobyanin alleged that the drone strikes in the Russian capital hit "non-residential" buildings around 4 am local time (01:00 GMT).

Also read &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-re-captured-more-than-16-sq-km-last-week-deputy-defence-minister-618823">Ukraine re-captured more than 16 sq km last week: Deputy defence minister</a>

In a post on social media, he added that the buildings had not sustained any major damage.

"A Kyiv regime attempt to carry out a terrorist act using two drones on objects on the territory of the city of Moscow was stopped," the Russian defence ministry said in a statement.

Meanwhile, in another development, Russian-installed officials have reportedly ordered people to evacuate one district of occupied Crimea after an overnight Ukrainian drone attack.

Kremlin-appointed regional head Sergei Aksenov said an ammunition depot was hit in the northern Dzhankoi area, and residents of nearby villages were told to leave their homes. He reported no casualties, as per BBC.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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Ukraine on Monday (July 24) claimed that Russia launched an overnight drone attack on port infrastructure in the Odesa region due to which a grain hangar was destroyed.

Ukraine on Monday (July 24) claimed that Russia launched an overnight drone attack on port infrastructure in the Odesa region due to which a grain hangar was destroyed. The Ukrainian military claimed that the drones used in the attack, which lasted for hours, were of Iranian origin, and added that Kyiv’s air defence retaliated and downed the Shahed drones. “Tonight, an almost four-hour attack by ‘Shahed-136’ drones was directed at the port infrastructure of the Danube” in the Odesa region, Ukraine’s southern military command said on Telegram. No casualties “As a result of the strikes, a grain hangar was destroyed, tanks for storing other types of cargo were damaged.” So far, no casualties have been reported, the military added. “According to initial reports, about four workers of the port were injured, but the information is still being clarified,” it said. Attacks on Odesa rises Ever since Russia pulled out of the key grain deal with Ukraine last week that allowed safe passage of Ukrainian grain on the Black Sea, there has been a rise in attacks on the Odesa region. Russia declared that it would consider any ships heading for Ukrainian grain ports on the Black Sea as military targets. Kyiv has accused Russia of targeting grain supplies and infrastructure vital to any resumption of Ukrainian grain exports. Drone strikes hit two buildings in Moscow, Russia blames Ukraine for 'terrorist attack' Drone attacks on Moscow The development comes hours after Russia accused Ukraine of launching drone attacks in which two buildings were damaged early Monday morning in the capital Moscow. The Russian defence ministry alleged that two drones were "suppressed and crashed", adding that there were no casualties. Russia's state-owned Tass news agency reported that one drone fell close to the defence ministry. Also read | 'I want to...': Putin says Moscow will replace Ukrainian grain shipments to Africa Moscow’s Mayor Sergei Sobyanin alleged that the drone strikes in the Russian capital hit "non-residential" buildings around 4 am local time (01:00 GMT). Also read Ukraine re-captured more than 16 sq km last week: Deputy defence minister In a post on social media, he added that the buildings had not sustained any major damage. "A Kyiv regime attempt to carry out a terrorist act using two drones on objects on the territory of the city of Moscow was stopped," the Russian defence ministry said in a statement. Meanwhile, in another development, Russian-installed officials have reportedly ordered people to evacuate one district of occupied Crimea after an overnight Ukrainian drone attack. Kremlin-appointed regional head Sergei Aksenov said an ammunition depot was hit in the northern Dzhankoi area, and residents of nearby villages were told to leave their homes. He reported no casualties, as per BBC. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian drones destroyed Odesa’s grain depot: Ukraine

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Russian onslaught in Odesa, Madrid stares at hung Parliament, Sudan crisis enters 100th day as mediation attempts fail, police unleash canine on black man in Ohio state.

Russian onslaught in Odesa; Madrid stares at hung Parliament | WION Speed News

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (July 23) vowed "retaliation" against Russia after the historic port of Odesa was attacked by Moscow with missiles, killing two people and damaging an Orthodox cathedral.&nbsp;

"Missiles against peaceful cities, against residential buildings, a cathedral. There will definitely be a retaliation against Russian terrorists for Odesa. They will feel this retaliation,"&nbsp;Zelensky said.&nbsp;

Ukraine said that 19 missiles were launched by Russia&nbsp;on Odesa overnight.

At least two people lost their&nbsp;lives and&nbsp;19&nbsp;others suffered injuries, which included four children as residential and religious infrastructure suffered damage in an attack, informed the governor of the region on Sunday (July 23). 
 
"Odesa: another night attack of the monsters. Unfortunately, we have one civilian killed as a result of the nighttime terrorist attack by Russians on Odesa," said Oleg Kiper on Telegram. Earlier, he had said that there were "18 victims, including four children," in an attack launched by Russia at 3:00 am (0000 GMT).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/air-attacks-on-ukraine-russia-possibly-using-ballistic-missiles-says-kyiv-616906">Air attacks on Ukraine: Russia possibly using ballistic missiles, says Kyiv</a>

"Fourteen people were hospitalised in the city's hospitals, three of them were children," he stated. He added that the attack also led to "damage to civilian infrastructure, residential buildings and a religious institution".

<h2>Ukraine's repeated appeals for more defence systems</h2>

Head of Ukraine's presidential office Andriy Yermak repeated the call of Kyiv for more defence systems and missiles after the attack on Odesa. 
 
"The enemy must be deprived of the ability to hit civilians and infrastructure. More missile defence systems, as well as ATACMS - this will help Ukraine," he stated on Telegram while speaking about the long-range tactical missiles which Kyiv has been appealing to Washington to supply. 
 
Since the start of the invasion, Odesa has been bombed multiple times and the city's historic centre was designated as a World Heritage in Danger site by the United Nations Cultural Agency (UNESCO) in January.

<h2>Russia pounds Odesa</h2>

Odeas, along with other Ukrainian food export facilities, has been pounded by Russia almost daily for the past week after Moscow's withdrawal from the United Nations-brokered grain deal, which allowed for the Ukrainian grain's safe shipment. 
 
On its Telegram messaging app, Ukraine's Air Force said that high-precision Onyx missiles along with sea-to-shore Kalibr cruise missiles have&nbsp;been launched by Russia on Odesa after midnight on Sunday.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia attacks Odesa for the third day

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It was reported by the RBC-Ukraine news agency that the city's largest Orthodox church, which is the Spaso-Preobrazhenskyi Cathedral&nbsp;consecrated in 1809, has suffered severe damages in the attacks. 
 
In the social media videos, rubble can be seen inside a dark church-like structure which was put on fire and a distressed man can be seen walking and repeating, "The church is no longer."&nbsp;

<h2>Russia says attacks were 'planned, intended'</h2>

Moscow on Sunday said that&nbsp;all the intended targets were hit in&nbsp;Odesa port, claiming those sites were being used for&nbsp;preparing "terrorist acts" against Russia.&nbsp;

"At night the armed forces of the Russian Federation carried out a strike... on facilities where terrorist acts against the Russian Federation using unmanned boats were prepared. All planned targets in the strikes were destroyed,"&nbsp;said the Russian army.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (July 23) vowed "retaliation" against Russia after the historic port of Odesa was attacked by Moscow with missiles, killing two people and damaging an Orthodox cathedral.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday (July 23) vowed "retaliation" against Russia after the historic port of Odesa was attacked by Moscow with missiles, killing two people and damaging an Orthodox cathedral. "Missiles against peaceful cities, against residential buildings, a cathedral. There will definitely be a retaliation against Russian terrorists for Odesa. They will feel this retaliation," Zelensky said. Ukraine said that 19 missiles were launched by Russia on Odesa overnight. At least two people lost their lives and 19 others suffered injuries, which included four children as residential and religious infrastructure suffered damage in an attack, informed the governor of the region on Sunday (July 23). "Odesa: another night attack of the monsters. Unfortunately, we have one civilian killed as a result of the nighttime terrorist attack by Russians on Odesa," said Oleg Kiper on Telegram. Earlier, he had said that there were "18 victims, including four children," in an attack launched by Russia at 3:00 am (0000 GMT). ALSO READ | Air attacks on Ukraine: Russia possibly using ballistic missiles, says Kyiv "Fourteen people were hospitalised in the city's hospitals, three of them were children," he stated. He added that the attack also led to "damage to civilian infrastructure, residential buildings and a religious institution". Ukraine's repeated appeals for more defence systems Head of Ukraine's presidential office Andriy Yermak repeated the call of Kyiv for more defence systems and missiles after the attack on Odesa. "The enemy must be deprived of the ability to hit civilians and infrastructure. More missile defence systems, as well as ATACMS - this will help Ukraine," he stated on Telegram while speaking about the long-range tactical missiles which Kyiv has been appealing to Washington to supply. Since the start of the invasion, Odesa has been bombed multiple times and the city's historic centre was designated as a World Heritage in Danger site by the United Nations Cultural Agency (UNESCO) in January. Russia pounds Odesa Odeas, along with other Ukrainian food export facilities, has been pounded by Russia almost daily for the past week after Moscow's withdrawal from the United Nations-brokered grain deal, which allowed for the Ukrainian grain's safe shipment. On its Telegram messaging app, Ukraine's Air Force said that high-precision Onyx missiles along with sea-to-shore Kalibr cruise missiles have been launched by Russia on Odesa after midnight on Sunday. WATCH | Russia attacks Odesa for the third day It was reported by the RBC-Ukraine news agency that the city's largest Orthodox church, which is the Spaso-Preobrazhenskyi Cathedral consecrated in 1809, has suffered severe damages in the attacks. In the social media videos, rubble can be seen inside a dark church-like structure which was put on fire and a distressed man can be seen walking and repeating, "The church is no longer." Russia says attacks were 'planned, intended' Moscow on Sunday said that all the intended targets were hit in Odesa port, claiming those sites were being used for preparing "terrorist acts" against Russia. "At night the armed forces of the Russian Federation carried out a strike... on facilities where terrorist acts against the Russian Federation using unmanned boats were prepared. All planned targets in the strikes were destroyed," said the Russian army. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Zelensky vows to 'retaliate' after overnight strikes on Odesa by Russia

Russia attacked the Odesa region for the second consecutive night. The strikes come after Moscow quit on Monday a year-old grain deal allowing the safe passage of Ukrainian grain through the black sea. The grain deal termination prompted the United Nations to warn it risked creating hunger around the world. Let's take a look at what is happening in Odesa, and the significance of the port city.

'Mass revenge strike': Moscow hits Odesa; 60,000 tonnes of grain destroyed

The Chinese consulate in the Ukrainian port city of Odesa has been damaged in the overnight strike by the Russian forces. Oleh Kiper, the regional governor confirmed the attack, saying Russia was 'deliberately' hitting the port infrastructure.

The Chinese consulate in the Ukrainian port city of Odesa has been damaged in the overnight strike by the Russian forces. Oleh Kiper, the regional governor confirmed the attack, saying Russia was 'deliberately' hitting the port infrastructure. "As a result of the Russian night attack, the building of the consulate general of the People’s Republic of China in Odesa was damaged," Kiper said on Telegram. "The aggressor deliberately hits the port infrastructure. Administrative and residential buildings, as well as the consulate of the People’s Republic of China, were damaged. This suggests that the enemy does not pay attention to anything," he added. The Chinese side is yet to comment on the issue. But a stern reaction is highly unlikely as ever since the war broke out, China has refused to publicly discourage Russia. Meanwhile, senior officials have often expressed direct support saying Beijing acknowledges “legitimate and reasonable security concerns”. Strikes in Mykolaiv and Odesa port cities After the third consecutive day of strikes battered the port cities of Odesa and Mykolaiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky offered condolences to the victims. Reports stated that two people were killed while 27 were injured in the overnight attacks by Moscow. “Odesa. Mykolaiv. Russian terrorists continue their attempts to destroy the life of our country. But the evil state has no missiles that are more powerful than our will to save lives, support each other and win," said Zelensky. Watch: Ukrainian president aide admits counteroffensive will take long × The Ukrainian air force said early Thursday that at least eight Russian Tu-22M3 aircraft were "flying in the direction of the Black Sea." Ukraine, which reclaimed much of the territory last September, warned this week that Russia was again on the attack in the region, with "heavy fighting" taking place. Ministry spokesperson Igor Konashenkov said that Russian forces also launched strikes on military-industrial sites, a fuel and ammunition store in Odesa, and a Ukrainian Air Force air base in the Kirovogradska region. Also read | Russian strike on Ukraine's port city of Mykolaiv injures nine, including children The strikes intensified after Moscow pulled out of the Black Sea grain deal on Monday, leading to an exponential rise in wheat prices globally. While the wheat remains stuck in Ukrainian ports, the Russian side has started "deliberately targeting the grain deal infrastructure", according to Zelensky. Experts argue that the domino effect will be reflected in global inflation which had calmed down after a long time. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Chinese consulate damaged by Russian strike in port city of Odesa: Reports

Russia launched an attack on the Odesa region for the third day in a row. On Monday, Moscow withdrew from a one-year-old grain arrangement that permitted the peaceful transit of Ukrainian grain over the Black Sea. The United Nations warned that the termination of the grain deal risked generating global hunger.

Russia attacks Odesa for the third day

The Ukrainian Air Force said in a statement Wednesday (July 19) that Russia had launched overnight air attacks on the Ukrainian port of Odesa. The attack comes just a day after Moscow carried out air attacks on Ukraine's south and east using drones and possibly ballistic missiles.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Ukraine claimed that Russian forces launched more than 60 airstrikes on Ukraine overnight. The air force said that the Russian barrage included Kalibr, Kh-22 and Oniks cruise missiles, and Iran-made Shahed-136/131 UAVs. The statement added that Ukrainian air defences destroyed 14 cruise missiles and 23 drones.&nbsp;

As reported by news agency Reuters, Serhiy Bratchuk, who is the spokesperson for the Odesa military administration, said in a voice message on his Telegram channel on Wednesday that the attack was "very powerful, truly massive". He added that "it was a hellish night". Bratchuk said that details on damage and casualties would come later.&nbsp;

Odesa's mayor said that the Russian aerial assault was "one of the most horrible nights" of the war. Mayor Hennadii Trukhanov said on Facebook: "We do not recall such a scale of attack since the beginning of a full-scale invasion."&nbsp;

"We are getting stronger from our righteous fury! We are grateful to the air defence system. It was a fierce air battle," Trukhanov said.&nbsp;

The attack comes against the backdrop of Russia suspending its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal on Monday, just hours before it was supposed to expire. Moscow said that it will only return to the deal if its conditions are met.&nbsp;

The deal aimed to alleviate a global food crisis by allowing Ukrainian grain blocked because of the conflict to be exported safely. It was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey last July.&nbsp;

The region of Odesa remained a crucial point ever since the war started. It is home to maritime terminals that were key to the expired grain export agreement between Moscow and Kyiv.&nbsp;

<h2>Air attacks on Kyiv&nbsp;</h2>

Air defence systems were engaged in repelling the attack on Kyiv, the capital's military administration said on the Telegram channel. Air raid alerts could be heard in the capital on Wednesday morning, Reuters reported. &nbsp;

"A difficult night of air attacks for all of Ukraine, especially in the south, in Odesa," Serhiy Popko, head of Kyiv's city military administration, said on the Telegram channel.&nbsp;

<h2>Fire at military base in Crimea&nbsp;</h2>

Meanwhile, on the Russian front, the Moscow-backed governor of Crimea said on Wednesday that a fire that broke out at the military training grounds in the Kirovske district on the Crimean Peninsula forced the evacuation of more than 2,000 people and the closure of a nearby highway.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Ukrainian Air Force said in a statement Wednesday (July 19) that Russia had launched overnight air attacks on the Ukrainian port of Odesa. The attack comes just a day after Moscow carried out air attacks on Ukraine's south and east using drones and possibly ballistic missiles.

The Ukrainian Air Force said in a statement Wednesday (July 19) that Russia had launched overnight air attacks on the Ukrainian port of Odesa. The attack comes just a day after Moscow carried out air attacks on Ukraine's south and east using drones and possibly ballistic missiles. On Wednesday, Ukraine claimed that Russian forces launched more than 60 airstrikes on Ukraine overnight. The air force said that the Russian barrage included Kalibr, Kh-22 and Oniks cruise missiles, and Iran-made Shahed-136/131 UAVs. The statement added that Ukrainian air defences destroyed 14 cruise missiles and 23 drones. As reported by news agency Reuters, Serhiy Bratchuk, who is the spokesperson for the Odesa military administration, said in a voice message on his Telegram channel on Wednesday that the attack was "very powerful, truly massive". He added that "it was a hellish night". Bratchuk said that details on damage and casualties would come later. Odesa's mayor said that the Russian aerial assault was "one of the most horrible nights" of the war. Mayor Hennadii Trukhanov said on Facebook: "We do not recall such a scale of attack since the beginning of a full-scale invasion." "We are getting stronger from our righteous fury! We are grateful to the air defence system. It was a fierce air battle," Trukhanov said. The attack comes against the backdrop of Russia suspending its participation in the Black Sea grain export deal on Monday, just hours before it was supposed to expire. Moscow said that it will only return to the deal if its conditions are met. The deal aimed to alleviate a global food crisis by allowing Ukrainian grain blocked because of the conflict to be exported safely. It was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey last July. The region of Odesa remained a crucial point ever since the war started. It is home to maritime terminals that were key to the expired grain export agreement between Moscow and Kyiv. Air attacks on Kyiv Air defence systems were engaged in repelling the attack on Kyiv, the capital's military administration said on the Telegram channel. Air raid alerts could be heard in the capital on Wednesday morning, Reuters reported. "A difficult night of air attacks for all of Ukraine, especially in the south, in Odesa," Serhiy Popko, head of Kyiv's city military administration, said on the Telegram channel. Fire at military base in Crimea Meanwhile, on the Russian front, the Moscow-backed governor of Crimea said on Wednesday that a fire that broke out at the military training grounds in the Kirovske district on the Crimean Peninsula forced the evacuation of more than 2,000 people and the closure of a nearby highway. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Hellish night' for Ukraine as Russia launches another air strike on Odesa

Russia has launched an attack on Ukraine's port town of Odesa. The tension has now moved to the south. Analysts say Russia is eyeing total control of the Black Sea. What does this mean for Ukraine? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas | Ukraine War: The next big battle | Russia attacks Odesa, eyes total control of the Black Sea

Ukraine's Air Force command said early Tuesday (April 4) that Russia launched 17 Iranian-made Shahed drones to attack the war-torn country overnight, adding that 14 of these drones were destroyed, the news agency Reuters reported.

Ukraine's Air Force command said early Tuesday (April 4) that Russia launched 17 Iranian-made Shahed drones to attack the war-torn country overnight, adding that 14 of these drones were destroyed, the news agency Reuters reported. Taking to Telegram, the command said in a statement, "In total, up to 17 launches of UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) attacks were recorded, presumably from the eastern coast area of the Sea of Azov." The drones struck the port of Odessa, local authorities said, adding there was damage. Taking to Facebook, the authorities said in a statement, "The enemy has just struck Odessa and the Odessa district with attack UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles)." "There is damage," the statement said. ALSO READ | Explained: Who was Vladlen Tatarsky, the Russian war blogger with Ukraine roots who was killed? Citing Yuriy Kruk, the head of the Odessa district military administration, the statement added that Ukraine's air defence forces were at work and warned of a possible second wave of attacks. The statement did not provide any further details. Since the beginning of the Russian offensive in February last year, Odessa has been bombed several times by Russian forces. On March 9, local authorities said that Russian strikes targeted the southern Odessa region. Governor Maksym Marchneko said that missiles had hit the energy infrastructure of the region as well as damaged residential buildings. Marchneko added that there were no casualties, and that power supply restrictions were in place. The latest drone strikes in Ukraine come as fierce fighting continues in and around Bakhmut. The battle for the city has been one of the bloodiest of the conflict with several casualties on both sides. Last Sunday, Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin said that his troops raised a Russian flag on the city-centre administrative building. However, the Ukrainian military said, fighting was still raging around the city council building, as well as in other nearby towns. Speaking to Reuters, Serhiy Cherevatyi, spokesperson for the eastern military command, said on Monday, "Bakhmut is Ukrainian and they have not captured anything and are very far from doing that." "They raised the flag over some kind of toilet. They attached it to the side of who knows what hung their rag and said they had captured the city. Well good, let them think they've taken it," Cherevatyi added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia launches 17 drones on Ukraine, 14 destroyed, says Kyiv

Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal on Saturday said that a serious accident took place at a high-voltage substation which led to widespread power outages in and around Odesa, the southern port city of Ukraine.&nbsp;"The situation is difficult, the scale of the accident is significant, it is impossible to quickly restore power supply, in particular to critical infrastructure," wrote Shmyhal on Telegram.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-swap-dozens-of-prisoners-of-war-558794">Russia, Ukraine swap dozens of prisoners of war</a>

The prime minister added that the Odesa region's substation had suffered damages multiple times previously because of Russian missile strikes and that the energy minister will be soon reaching the regional capital to look into the repairs along with the CEO of the national grid operator.

Shmyhal stated that the authorities have been working to ensure that the power supply to apartment blocks and critical infrastructure is restored as soon as possible so that the homes can remain heated using electricity.

On Saturday, the temperature in Odesa, which is the main southern port city of Ukraine on the Black Sea and has a population of one million people, was at two degrees Celsius (35.6°F) and as per experts it is likely to dip below freezing temperature in the next week.

WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: Zelensky meeting with EU leaders underway; Russia advances in East Ukraine

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Shmyhal said that the energy ministry of Ukraine has been ordered to scramble every possible high-power generator which is available in its nationwide inventory and send it to Odesa in a day.

He added that the foreign ministry has also been asked to request Turkey to send power ships, which are vessels that carry power plants, to the city till there is a power outage.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal on Saturday said that a serious accident took place at a high-voltage substation which led to widespread power outages in and around Odesa, the southern port city of Ukraine.

Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal on Saturday said that a serious accident took place at a high-voltage substation which led to widespread power outages in and around Odesa, the southern port city of Ukraine. "The situation is difficult, the scale of the accident is significant, it is impossible to quickly restore power supply, in particular to critical infrastructure," wrote Shmyhal on Telegram. ALSO READ | Russia, Ukraine swap dozens of prisoners of war The prime minister added that the Odesa region's substation had suffered damages multiple times previously because of Russian missile strikes and that the energy minister will be soon reaching the regional capital to look into the repairs along with the CEO of the national grid operator. Shmyhal stated that the authorities have been working to ensure that the power supply to apartment blocks and critical infrastructure is restored as soon as possible so that the homes can remain heated using electricity. On Saturday, the temperature in Odesa, which is the main southern port city of Ukraine on the Black Sea and has a population of one million people, was at two degrees Celsius (35.6°F) and as per experts it is likely to dip below freezing temperature in the next week. WATCH | Russia Ukraine War: Zelensky meeting with EU leaders underway; Russia advances in East Ukraine Shmyhal said that the energy ministry of Ukraine has been ordered to scramble every possible high-power generator which is available in its nationwide inventory and send it to Odesa in a day. He added that the foreign ministry has also been asked to request Turkey to send power ships, which are vessels that carry power plants, to the city till there is a power outage. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

New blow to power grid in Ukraine after major accident in Odesa, says PM

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukrainian authorities claimed that fresh Russian strikes left the southern city of Odesa without power on Saturday (December 10). The authorities mentioned that Moscow launched "kamikaze drones" during the night-time attack. Only critical infrastructure such as hospitals and maternity wards had access to electricity as most parts of Ukraine’s southern port city of Odesa were without power. The local officials said Russia used drones to hit energy facilities and parts of the surrounding region were also affected. Odesa mayor, Gennadiy Trukhanov, wrote on Facebook: "Due to the scale of the damage, all users in Odesa except critical infrastructure have been disconnected from electricity." Kyrylo Tymoshenko, the deputy head of the presidential administration, said on Telegram that the city was without electricity at the time of post on the messaging app. He noted that the situation remains difficult, but is under control. Maksym Marchenko, who is the governor of the region of Odesa, claimed that Russia used "kamikaze drones" to attack the post city overnight. He said, "As a result of the strike, there is no electricity in almost all districts and communities of our region." Marchenko also stated that Ukrainian air defence units shot down two drones. WATCH | What is Russia's 'Nuclear Doctrine'? How is Russia's strategy different than US? × In the winter season, problems for Ukrainians are growing with each day passing as Russia's target on energy infrastructure is leaving millions without power. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday that the military situation in parts of eastern Ukraine was "very difficult". He further mentioned that Ukrainian forces continued to resist Russian attacks. "The frontline situation remains very difficult in the key areas of Donbas — Bakhmut, Soledar, Mariinka, Kreminna," Zelensky said in his daily video address. He added, "There is no living place left on the ground in these areas that is undamaged by shells and fire. The occupiers have actually destroyed Bakhmut — another city of Donbas, which the Russian army turned into scorched ruins." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russian attacks leave Ukraine’s Odesa without power; frontline situation in east is ‘very difficult’

The cultural arm of the United Nations, UNESCO, declared on Tuesday that it approved Ukraine's application to add the port city of Odesa to the World Heritage List.&nbsp;

Following a meeting between Oleksandr Tkachenko, the minister of culture for Ukraine, and Audrey Azoulay, the director-general of UNESCO, at the organization's Paris headquarters, UNESCO announced that it had organised experts to assist Ukraine so that the nomination could be urgently reviewed by World Heritage Committee member states.&nbsp;

In addition to Kyiv and Lviv, which are also in danger, UNESCO said it now intends to list Odesa on the List of World Heritage in Danger.

UNESCO said that the Black Sea port of Odesa, which is only a few dozen kilometres from the frontlines, has already been hit by artillery fire. The Odesa Museum of Fine Arts, which opened its doors in 1899, had a portion of its enormous glass roof and windows destroyed last month.&nbsp;

Since the start of the war, UNESCO has paid for renovations to both the museum and the Odesa Museum of Modern Art. They will also pay for additional staff members whose job it is to protect the artefacts. Along with providing safety gear, it will assist in digitising artwork.&nbsp;

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According to UNESCO, it has already raised close to $7 million for Ukraine and will contribute further money to repair war-related damage to museums as well as additional protective gear.

It will also provide assistance for the "digitisation of at least 1,000 works of art in Odessa as well as the documentary collection of the Odessa State Archives," it said.

The beetroot soup known as borshch was added to Ukraine's list of intangible cultural treasures in July, a decision that Moscow criticised as "xenophobic."

(with inputs from agencies)

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The cultural arm of the United Nations, UNESCO, declared on Tuesday that it approved Ukraine's application to add the port city of Odesa to the World Heritage List.

The cultural arm of the United Nations, UNESCO, declared on Tuesday that it approved Ukraine's application to add the port city of Odesa to the World Heritage List. Following a meeting between Oleksandr Tkachenko, the minister of culture for Ukraine, and Audrey Azoulay, the director-general of UNESCO, at the organization's Paris headquarters, UNESCO announced that it had organised experts to assist Ukraine so that the nomination could be urgently reviewed by World Heritage Committee member states. In addition to Kyiv and Lviv, which are also in danger, UNESCO said it now intends to list Odesa on the List of World Heritage in Danger. UNESCO said that the Black Sea port of Odesa, which is only a few dozen kilometres from the frontlines, has already been hit by artillery fire. The Odesa Museum of Fine Arts, which opened its doors in 1899, had a portion of its enormous glass roof and windows destroyed last month. Since the start of the war, UNESCO has paid for renovations to both the museum and the Odesa Museum of Modern Art. They will also pay for additional staff members whose job it is to protect the artefacts. Along with providing safety gear, it will assist in digitising artwork. Also Read: Zelensky meets IAEA chief in Kyiv ahead of agency's visit to Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant According to UNESCO, it has already raised close to $7 million for Ukraine and will contribute further money to repair war-related damage to museums as well as additional protective gear. It will also provide assistance for the "digitisation of at least 1,000 works of art in Odessa as well as the documentary collection of the Odessa State Archives," it said. The beetroot soup known as borshch was added to Ukraine's list of intangible cultural treasures in July, a decision that Moscow criticised as "xenophobic." (with inputs from agencies)

UNESCO supports Ukraine's bid to put threatened port of Odesa on World Heritage list

Gone are the times when tourists lay down on the Black Sea beaches of the Ukrainian resort town of Odesa, the white sands are now covered in mines because of the war with Russia and police officers patrol the boardwalks.

Ukraine's military planted mines along the coast in case of a Russian amphibious assault after Moscow's February&nbsp;24 invasion, cordoning off beach entrances with red and white tape to ensure civilians don't get hurt.

Already reeling from the war, the local economy of the port city of Odesa in southwestern Ukraine will take a huge hit to its tourism industry this year. Long-time residents cannot imagine life in Odesa without the sand and sea.

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"We can't live without the sea. If not for the sea, there would probably be no Odesa," said 82-year-old resident Viktor Holchenko.&nbsp;

In early May, Russian forces pounded the port with missiles, leaving buildings in Odesa in ruin. 
Signs posted by Ukraine's military warn residents to stay away from the beaches where mines have been buried. From a seaside restaurant, the view is now of a "Danger! mines" sign.

Residents laid out beach towels along boardwalks instead of on beaches to tan in their bathing suits. 
"They (the military) said not to go there (to the seaside)," said 18-year-old resident Kyrylo Zinchenko. "Why would you go there? This is the summer we will have."

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Once a driver of the local economy, tourism in Odesa has dried up.

"We realize that the tourism business and recreational component is an important element ... but we also realize that if we don't hold the defence of our region, there will be no budget to fill," said Nataliia Humeniuk, a spokeswoman of the southern military command.&nbsp;

The local economy will take a broad hit, said tourism office owner Oleksandr Babich. "It is hotels, restaurants, souvenirs, all kinds of beach services. It is things related to the cultural sector ... I don't know how the city economy will do without them."

[with inputs from agencies]

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Gone are the times when tourists lay down on the Black Sea beaches of the Ukrainian resort town of Odesa, the white sands are now covered in mines because of the war with Russia and police officers patrol the boardwalks.

Gone are the times when tourists lay down on the Black Sea beaches of the Ukrainian resort town of Odesa, the white sands are now covered in mines because of the war with Russia and police officers patrol the boardwalks. Ukraine's military planted mines along the coast in case of a Russian amphibious assault after Moscow's February 24 invasion, cordoning off beach entrances with red and white tape to ensure civilians don't get hurt. Already reeling from the war, the local economy of the port city of Odesa in southwestern Ukraine will take a huge hit to its tourism industry this year. Long-time residents cannot imagine life in Odesa without the sand and sea. Also Read: Russia-Ukraine tensions: What is really happening? Here's what you should know "We can't live without the sea. If not for the sea, there would probably be no Odesa," said 82-year-old resident Viktor Holchenko. In early May, Russian forces pounded the port with missiles, leaving buildings in Odesa in ruin. Signs posted by Ukraine's military warn residents to stay away from the beaches where mines have been buried. From a seaside restaurant, the view is now of a "Danger! mines" sign. Residents laid out beach towels along boardwalks instead of on beaches to tan in their bathing suits. "They (the military) said not to go there (to the seaside)," said 18-year-old resident Kyrylo Zinchenko. "Why would you go there? This is the summer we will have." Also Read: Battle analysis: Russian tank armada vs Ukraine - who will win? Once a driver of the local economy, tourism in Odesa has dried up. "We realize that the tourism business and recreational component is an important element ... but we also realize that if we don't hold the defence of our region, there will be no budget to fill," said Nataliia Humeniuk, a spokeswoman of the southern military command. The local economy will take a broad hit, said tourism office owner Oleksandr Babich. "It is hotels, restaurants, souvenirs, all kinds of beach services. It is things related to the cultural sector ... I don't know how the city economy will do without them." [with inputs from agencies] WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Odesa's popular white sand beaches now off-limits due to planted mines

Russian missile strike on Ukraine's port city of Odesa killed at least five people and injured 18 on Saturday (April 23), said Andriy Yermak, Ukraine president's chief of staff. He made an online post.

Two missiles struck a military facility and two residential buildings in Odesa, said Ukraine's southern air command.

Smoke billowed from one of the residential buildings struck as emergency services could be seen rushing to the scene. One woman who appeared to have some facial injuries was speaking to local media.

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Reuters said that the death toll has not been independently verified.

The last big strike on or near Odesa was in early April.

"The only aim of Russian missile strikes on Odesa is terror," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba wrote on Twitter.

Meanwhile, the Russian defence ministry said on Saturday that the missile strike was carried out on a depot containing weapons delivered by the US and European countries.

"Russian armed forces today disabled with high-precision and long-range missiles a logistics terminal at the military airfield near Odessa where a large batch of foreign weapons delivered by the United States and European countries were stored," it said in a statement.

On Saturday, Russia also resumed attack on Mariupol, another of Russia's port city in the South. Last resistance pocket of Ukrainian soldiers is in the Azovstal steel plant in the city. About 1000 Ukrainian citizens are also holed-up inside the factory. Russia has already declared that Mariupol is under its control.

On Friday, Russian defence ministry said that remaining Ukrainian fighters had been&nbsp;"securely blockaded" at the steel plant

Control of Mariupol is important to Russia to link Donbas region to Russia-controlled Crimea.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian missile strike on Ukraine's port city of Odesa killed at least five people and injured 18 on Saturday (April 23), said Andriy Yermak, Ukraine president's chief of staff.

Russian missile strike on Ukraine's port city of Odesa killed at least five people and injured 18 on Saturday (April 23), said Andriy Yermak, Ukraine president's chief of staff. He made an online post. Two missiles struck a military facility and two residential buildings in Odesa, said Ukraine's southern air command. Smoke billowed from one of the residential buildings struck as emergency services could be seen rushing to the scene. One woman who appeared to have some facial injuries was speaking to local media. Also Read | Russia resumes attack on Mariupol, Ukraine soldiers holed up in steel plant Reuters said that the death toll has not been independently verified. The last big strike on or near Odesa was in early April. "The only aim of Russian missile strikes on Odesa is terror," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba wrote on Twitter. Meanwhile, the Russian defence ministry said on Saturday that the missile strike was carried out on a depot containing weapons delivered by the US and European countries. "Russian armed forces today disabled with high-precision and long-range missiles a logistics terminal at the military airfield near Odessa where a large batch of foreign weapons delivered by the United States and European countries were stored," it said in a statement. On Saturday, Russia also resumed attack on Mariupol, another of Russia's port city in the South. Last resistance pocket of Ukrainian soldiers is in the Azovstal steel plant in the city. About 1000 Ukrainian citizens are also holed-up inside the factory. Russia has already declared that Mariupol is under its control. On Friday, Russian defence ministry said that remaining Ukrainian fighters had been "securely blockaded" at the steel plant Control of Mariupol is important to Russia to link Donbas region to Russia-controlled Crimea. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian missile strike kills five people in Ukraine's Odesa, says official

The horrors of war have engulfed Ukraine and there seems to be no respite for the people staying in the country amidst the Russian army invasion.

However, there was some enjoyment for a number of children who fled from the heavily attacked city of Kherson to the port city of Odesa.<o:p></o:p>

The children enjoyed a show featuring dolphins at the Nemo Hotel in Odesa on Saturday.<o:p></o:p>

"I liked everything very much. We have been dreaming about getting to a dolphin show for a long time. Such great emotions," said Irina Borisevich, 35, who fled Kherson with her two young children aged five and three according to a report on Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-it-destroyed-s-300-anti-aircraft-missile-systems-given-to-ukraine-by-eu-nation-470257" hreflang="en">Russia claims it destroyed S-300 anti-aircraft missile systems given to Ukraine by EU nation</a>

<o:p></o:p>

"It is a pity that this is happening under such circumstances," she added.<o:p></o:p>

The people who fled from Kherson were provided free accommodation at the Odesa hotel.<o:p></o:p>

"The dolphins are very positive, they don’t care about war," said the service manager at the hotel, Vyacheslav Lutushko as quoted by the report.<o:p></o:p>

The refugees will stay for a few days in Odesa and will start their journey once more to find refuge outside the country. There were a few attacks from Russia on Odesa as well and the facility housing the dolphins is just five Kilometers away from an oil refinery which came under heavy bombing.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-marks-10-years-since-kim-jong-uns-election-as-top-party-leader-470244" hreflang="en">North Korea marks 10 years since Kim Jong Un's election as top party leader</a>

The Reuters report stated that Borisevich travelled for nearly 12 hours in order to reach Odesa from Kherson after it was occupied by the Russian forces on March 3. The journey normally takes three hours but the roadblocks and checkpoints by the Russian forces made it very difficult for them.<o:p></o:p>

"It was scary to drive through Russian checkpoints because they were looking at documents, checking phones, things. They could take away anything they wanted from someone," she said.<o:p></o:p>

The horrors of war have engulfed Ukraine and there seems to be no respite for the people staying in the country amidst the Russian army invasion. However, there was some enjoyment for a number of children who fled from the heavily attacked city of Kherson to the port city of Odesa.

The horrors of war have engulfed Ukraine and there seems to be no respite for the people staying in the country amidst the Russian army invasion. However, there was some enjoyment for a number of children who fled from the heavily attacked city of Kherson to the port city of Odesa. The children enjoyed a show featuring dolphins at the Nemo Hotel in Odesa on Saturday. "I liked everything very much. We have been dreaming about getting to a dolphin show for a long time. Such great emotions," said Irina Borisevich, 35, who fled Kherson with her two young children aged five and three according to a report on Reuters. Also read | Russia claims it destroyed S-300 anti-aircraft missile systems given to Ukraine by EU nation "It is a pity that this is happening under such circumstances," she added. The people who fled from Kherson were provided free accommodation at the Odesa hotel. "The dolphins are very positive, they don’t care about war," said the service manager at the hotel, Vyacheslav Lutushko as quoted by the report. The refugees will stay for a few days in Odesa and will start their journey once more to find refuge outside the country. There were a few attacks from Russia on Odesa as well and the facility housing the dolphins is just five Kilometers away from an oil refinery which came under heavy bombing. Also read | North Korea marks 10 years since Kim Jong Un's election as top party leader The Reuters report stated that Borisevich travelled for nearly 12 hours in order to reach Odesa from Kherson after it was occupied by the Russian forces on March 3. The journey normally takes three hours but the roadblocks and checkpoints by the Russian forces made it very difficult for them. "It was scary to drive through Russian checkpoints because they were looking at documents, checking phones, things. They could take away anything they wanted from someone," she said.

Dolphins bring joy to Ukrainian children fleeing war in Kherson

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