Russia has intensified its strikes on the southern Ukrainian region of Odesa, causing widespread power cuts and threatening the region's maritime infrastructure.
Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Kuleba reported that Moscow was carrying out systematic attacks on the region, with the focus of the war seemingly shifting towards Odesa. President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that the repeated attacks aim to block Ukraine's access to critical maritime logistics.
These strikes have significantly impacted Odesa's port operations, crucial for Ukraine’s economy, especially given that other ports remain inaccessible due to Russian occupation. Experts note that Odesa has become strategically important as it serves as a lifeline for grain exports amidst the ongoing conflict.
Notably, a recent missile strike in the area has left eight people dead and many injured. Power outages have affected over 120,000 people, disrupting daily life and causing further safety concerns as the attacks continue unabated.
In the wider context, Zelensky has voiced that without international pressure on Russia, the aggressor has no real intention of ceasing hostilities. Meanwhile, diplomatic discussions in Miami involving the US, Ukraine, and Russia have so far failed to yield significant progress towards peace.
With Ukraine remaining one of the top global exporters of wheat, the ongoing conflict and Russian threats to maritime access could have far-reaching consequences for food security worldwide.
