Why is Russia escalating attacks on Ukraine’s Odesa?

Al JazeeraCenterEN 5 min read 100% complete by Alex Kozul-WrightDecember 23, 2025 at 02:42 PM

AI Summary

long article 5 min

Russia has escalated attacks on Odesa, Ukraine, targeting the port city's infrastructure and logistics. Recent strikes have damaged port facilities, a civilian cargo vessel, and warehouses. These attacks follow a sustained barrage of drones and missiles on the wider Odesa area, which is crucial for Ukraine's overseas trade and fuel imports. Ukrainian officials state that Russia is attempting to restrict Ukraine’s access to the sea and block its coastal regions. The escalation comes as the US increases diplomatic efforts to end the war, with recent talks between US, Ukrainian, and Russian representatives.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Oleksii Kuleba 40% Oleh Kiper 40% United States ×250% Pivdennyi ×250% Volodymyr Zelenskyy 60% Black Sea ×270% Russia ×990% Ukraine ×890% Odesa ×995%

Keywords

russia-ukraine war 100% odesa 90% port infrastructure 80% black sea 70% missile attacks 60% ukrainian exports 60% maritime blockade 50% energy infrastructure 40%