Russian tactical aviation attacks Odesa region
Russian forces launched an attack on the southern Odesa region on the morning of March 7 using an aviation missile.
According to the Southern Defense Forces, Rubryka reports, the missile did not reach the coast.
"This morning, enemy forces attacked Odesa from tactical aircraft from the Black Sea, directing a Kh-31P missile. The missile lost its combat capability on approach to the coast," the message said.
No damage or casualties were reported.
The Defense Forces stressed that Russia continues the tactic of pinpointing missile strikes, testing and scouting anti-aircraft defense systems.
"Stay alert and aware. When danger is imminent, seek shelter," the military warned.
Natalia Humeniuk, Head of the Unified Press Center of the Southern Operational Command, said that the Odesa region requires enhanced protection, including specific air defense systems capable of intercepting ballistic missiles.
"The Odesa region needs additional enhanced protection because it houses a very powerful economic component of the entire Ukrainian economy. Despite enemy attempts to halt port activities and maritime navigation, they continue to operate under the auspices of the Ukrainian Defense Forces," said Humeniuk.
According to her, ensuring the safety of navigation under current conditions is very challenging.
"The only thing we really need at this stage is strong support for air defense systems. I believe our partners hear us," she added.
Humeniuk emphasized that ballistic missiles are very difficult to intercept, and specific air defense systems are needed to counter them.
Rocket strike on Odesa on March 6
As previously reported by Rubryka, Russian forces launched a rocket strike on Odesa on March 6. At the time, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis were in the city.
Greek media reported that the strike was allegedly aimed at the convoy of President Volodymyr Zelensky, which was located 150 meters away from the Greek delegation.
President Zelensky, commenting on the attack, stated that he saw and heard the Russian attack.
The shelling of Odesa's port infrastructure killed five people, and the number of injured is being clarified.
The Russian rocket strike on Odesa on March 6 was not related to the visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to the city, according to the spokesperson for the Southern Defense Forces of Ukraine, Natalia Humeniuk.
