Massive Attack by Russian Drones on Odesa: Dozens of Hits Caused Large Fires and Human Losses
During the night from June 19 to June 20, the city of Odesa was again targeted by Russian unmanned aerial vehicles. According to reports from the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SESU), at least ten missile strikes occurred as a result of a large-scale attack, resulting in destruction and fires in various districts of the city. Thirteen people were injured, including three fire and rescue personnel, who are now hospitalized in stable condition. According to SESU representatives, this night was one of the largest attack scenes in recent times. "Russia carried out a massive attack on Odesa using strike drones. Over 10 hits were recorded, causing extensive fires and destruction," the official statement from the agency reads. Emergency responders Worked around the clock to localize the fires and rescue those affected. The most affected was a four-story residential building completely engulfed in flames. Three residents were rescued, and six others were evacuated from the danger zone. During firefighting operations, part of the structure collapsed, resulting in injuries to three rescuers. They are currently in hospitals in stable condition. Additionally, a 23-story residential building was damaged during the attack. Fire spread across floors 18 through 20. About 600 residents were evacuated from the high-rise, with rescuers saving three people, including two children. The city also sustained further damages — fires broke out in five residential buildings and three vehicles parked on the streets. A photo report from the scene shows the scale of the tragedy: burned building facades, smoke, and flames burning in the city center. According to SESU, a supply point for those affected and residents left homeless is being set up at the partially destroyed building. Local residents report that, reportedly, one more person in need of urgent help is still inside this building. Search and rescue operations are ongoing. Local authorities urge residents to be cautious and follow safety recommendations. Currently, a heightened security regime is in place throughout the city. Authorities confirm that Ukrainian defense forces continue working to neutralize enemy drones and prevent further massive attacks. This night attack is yet another example of how dangerous and destructive the war is for peaceful residents of Odesa and its community. They face daily risks to their lives due to Russian aggression, which causes destruction of housing infrastructure, environmental harm, and disruption of the city’s normal life. The local community demands more active support from the international community and calls for strengthening defense capabilities to better protect against such attacks in the future. As of the morning of June 20, 13 people are known to be injured, including three rescuers. Rapid response crews worked tirelessly throughout the night to extinguish fires, evacuate residents, and search for missing persons among the rubble. All those rescued are receiving medical care, and building clearance operations are ongoing. Today’s events serve as a stark reminder of the price Ukrainian cities pay for their freedom and independence, and underscore the need to enhance defense capacities to protect citizens.