Missile Attack on Odesa, a Southern Port City of Ukraine

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Ryu Tae-min] Major foreign media reported that a large explosion occurred on the 3rd (local time) in Odesa, a southern port city of Ukraine.

According to major foreign media, several explosions were heard and smoke was observed that day. AFP reported that around 6 a.m., an explosion was heard in the port industrial area, followed by flames and black smoke rising from at least three locations. The Odesa City Council announced, "Some areas were hit by missile attacks, causing fires," according to major foreign media.

Odesa is Ukraine's largest logistics hub and is considered one of Ukraine's strategic key points. Odesa Oblast, where Odesa city is located, faces the Black Sea and is evaluated as a gateway of Ukraine, possessing the most ports in the country.

If Russian forces take control of Odesa Oblast, they will be able to dominate the southern coast of Ukraine. This would cause significant economic and strategic damage to Ukraine.

Earlier, Ukraine revealed that on the 21st of last month, a Russian warship shelled residential areas on the outskirts of Odesa.