Odesa among Russia's main targets - WSJ explains surge in attacks
Photo: Russia intensifies strikes on transport and port infrastructure in Odesa (t.me/dsns_telegram)
In December, Russia directed its strikes at Odesa, a key hub for grain exports and an economic artery connecting Ukraine to the rest of the world. In this way, Russia is trying to weaken the Ukrainian economy, The Wall Street Journal reports.
"They definitely want to cut off Odesa and other cities in terms of infrastructure. They are striking and killing both people and the economy by reducing our export capabilities through the maritime corridor," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
Ukraine's Ministry of Development reported that Kyiv exports about 90% of its agricultural products by sea. The country has learned to protect this trade route with naval drones, but Russia has intensified aerial attacks, and its drones often avoid areas where air defense systems are deployed.
The WSJ notes that Odesa has become a primary target of Russia, which claims to strike transport and port infrastructure used in the interests of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. As a result, the city is effectively under siege, and residents have spent days without electricity, water, or heating.
Consequences will be felt after the war
"Russia is trying to destroy all key elements of the export logistics chains. They are hitting what is easiest for them to reach. And then, of course, if you look at export logistics, Odesa is the final gateway," said Serhiy Vovk, director of Ukraine’s Center for Transport Strategies.
He emphasized that Russia is following a strategy of strikes targeting Ukraine’s economic sector, exports, and economy.
According to Vovk, if grain exports are disrupted due to these attacks, buyers of Ukrainian products may seek supplies elsewhere in more stable locations. He stressed that the consequences will be felt long after the war ends.
Attacks in the Odesa region
On the night of December 31, another large-scale attack hit the region. As a result, parts of Odesa were left without electricity, water, or heating. Local authorities reported that the enemy targeted civilian and energy infrastructure.
Odesa was among the cities attacked on the night of December 31 to January 1. Energy infrastructure in the region was damaged, and fires broke out.
