Two people lost their lives and at least 14 others were injured when a Russian drone struck a residential high-rise in Odesa, Ukraine. This tragic incident occurred overnight, as reported by local authorities on Saturday.
Among the injured, three were children, with one in critical condition, according to the regional Governor Oleh Kiper. The attack caused significant damage, and footage from the State Emergency Service showed firefighters working to extinguish flames and helping residents escape through dark stairwells in the 21-story building.
This drone strike is part of a worrying trend, as Russia has increased its use of drones and missiles against Ukrainian cities in recent weeks. This escalation comes as diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict, now in its third year, have stalled.
In a recent statement, Andriy Yermak, a senior advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, emphasized that Russia appears determined to continue its aggression. He stated, “Russia is escalating the war and has no intention of stopping it. Any escalation can only be stopped by force.”
The attack on Odesa follows a massive assault by Russia earlier this month, where nearly 500 drones and 20 missiles were launched at various targets in Ukraine. Ukrainian officials reported that they managed to intercept just over half of the drones and nearly all of the missiles.
As the violence continues, international figures are also involved in efforts to broker peace. Former President Donald Trump recently criticized Russian Deputy Chairman of the Security Council Dmitry Medvedev for comments about nuclear weapons, highlighting the tense atmosphere surrounding the ongoing conflict.
The situation in Ukraine remains dire, with civilians bearing the brunt of the violence as attacks escalate.
