Russian drone assault ignites chaos in Odesa and beyond
At least 10 Russian unmanned aerial vehicles fell in the southern districts of Odesa, Ukraine, causing massive fires in the city and injuring several individuals. Drones also attacked Poltava, Kyiv, and Kharkiv.
Oleh Kiper, head of the Odesa Regional Military Administration, urged residents to remain in shelters after Russian Shahed drones were detected in the sky before 5:00 PM.
Massive Russian attack: dozens of drones in the air
"Odesa and the region are under threat of drone strikes! Stay in hiding!" Kiper wrote at 4:42 PM.
Soon after, the first recordings surfaced online showing Ukrainian air defense efforts to shoot down the Russian drones.
A significant fire broke out on the outskirts of Odesa.
In another statement, Kiper mentioned that the Russians targeted civilian infrastructure. "Several fires broke out due to the attack. All appropriate services are working to mitigate the effects. According to preliminary data, two people were injured in the Russian drone strikes. Doctors are providing necessary assistance," he assured.
Poltava, Kharkiv, and Kyiv under fire
The Russians also attacked Poltava. Volodymyr Kohut, head of the Poltava Regional Military Administration, reported that both civilian and industrial infrastructure were targeted.
"The explosions heard by Poltava residents result from shooting down drones, the explosion of their fragments upon impact, and – unfortunately – hits on civilian infrastructure and industrial facilities. So far, there is no information on any injured individuals. The air alert is ongoing! Stay in shelters until it's canceled. Take care of yourselves and your loved ones," Kohut urged.
The Russian army also attacked Kharkiv. At least six explosions occurred in the city.
"According to preliminary information, all hits took place in the Novobavarskyi district. A large fire broke out at the impact sites. The remaining effects of the night attack on Kharkiv are being assessed," wrote Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov.
Air defense is also active in the Kyiv area. Explosions occurred in Brovary, among other places.
