Historic center of Odesa under attack: monuments damaged, gas stations and apartments burned

As a result of a massive drone attack on Odesa, residential buildings were damaged, causing large-scale fires and destruction, including in a high-rise building. At least three people were injured, five were rescued from the rubble, and the city suffered significant damage to civilian infrastructure.

This was reported by the press service of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine in Odesa region.

On the night of July 24, Odesa again came under a massive attack by Russian attack drones. Despite the work of the air defense forces, the debris and explosions caused large-scale destruction, fires, and injuries to civilians.

A nine-story residential building sustained the most damage. In one of the entrances, apartments from the 5th to the 8th floor were completely destroyed, and fires broke out on the 5th and 6th floors. Five people were rescued from the blocked apartments, and 33 others were evacuated. The State Emergency Service has set up an Unbreakable Point near the building, and psychologists from the State Emergency Service and the National Police are working with the residents.

The rubble is difficult to dismantle due to the high probability of collapse - the movement of structures is recorded by special seismographic equipment. Dog handlers are searching for possible victims. Rescue operations at the site are ongoing.

Rescuers also dealt with the aftermath of the impacts in other parts of Odesa: fires broke out in a private house, at a gas station and in trade pavilions.

The city also recorded damage to architectural monuments in the historic center, which is protected by UNESCO. At least three people have been reported injured.

A total of 112 rescuers and 26 pieces of equipment are involved in the response. Information on the damage and casualties is being updated.

On the night of July 22, the air defense forces of southern Ukraine shot down 11 enemy Shahed attack drones and other models of drones, all over the territory of Odesa region. According to preliminary data, the enemy launched a total of 12 drones.

Despite the air defense system, the debris and explosions caused serious damage to civilian infrastructure. A 25-story residential building, a supermarket, a gym, and an administrative building were damaged in the attack. Over 30 cars were also destroyed or damaged, at least 12 of which were completely burnt.

Анна Бальчінос