Ukrainian officials reported that a Russian ballistic missile attack targeted port infrastructure near the Black Sea city of Odesa on the evening of December 19, resulting in seven deaths and 15 injuries, according to preliminary figures.
Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Kuleba stated on Telegram: “In the late evening, Russia attacked port infrastructure in Odesa region with ballistic missiles.” Odesa regional governor Oleh Kiper confirmed the casualties.

A source indicated the strike hit Pivdennyi (also known as Yuzhny), one of the area’s three major ports critical for Ukrainian grain and other exports.

The Odesa region has faced repeated Russian attacks since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022, with strikes intensifying recently and often causing widespread power outages.

A separate attack on Thursday damaged a bridge southwest of Odesa, disrupting a key route to the Danube River port of Reni and complicating travel to Moldova and Romania.

Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko announced government measures to maintain road and rail transport for residents and commercial vehicles.

Kuleba noted ongoing coordination with Moldovan authorities to establish alternative border routes for trucks and passengers. In response, Moldova set up temporary camps at crossing points to offer shelter and food to delayed travelers heading to Ukraine.

Source: Reuters