Russia escalates attacks on key Ukrainian region of Odesa

Russia has escalated attacks on the Odesa region of southern Ukraine, targeting port infrastructure and causing widespread power outages. These intensified strikes, which have occurred throughout December, have damaged civilian vessels, disrupted power for hundreds of thousands of people, and resulted in casualties. Ukrainian officials state that Russia is systematically attacking the region, potentially shifting the war's focus to Odesa. President Zelensky asserts that Russia aims to block Ukraine's maritime access, potentially in retaliation for drone attacks on Russia's "shadow fleet." Odesa is strategically important for Ukraine as it is a key export corridor for grain, especially since other ports are inaccessible due to Russian occupation. Zelensky has called for increased pressure on Russia to end its aggression.

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