Death toll from Russian attack on Odesa region ports rises to two
The number of fatalities resulting from today’s attack by Russian occupation forces on the port infrastructure of Odesa region has risen to two.
This was reported by Oleh Kiper, head of the Odesa Regional Military Administration.
He noted that during the clearing of debris and provision of assistance, another death was confirmed. Additionally, eight people were injured to varying degrees, and all victims are currently under medical supervision in hospitals across the region.
The enemy strike, which took place in the afternoon of January 7, 2026, targeted two ports in the region simultaneously, causing significant destruction to civilian facilities. Apart from human casualties, impacts were recorded on administrative buildings and warehouse facilities, as well as damage to containers of vegetable oil intended for export. Law enforcement agencies continue to document the consequences of this Russian war crime, classifying it as a deliberate attack on global food security.
Contrary to claims by Russian propaganda that military targets were hit, on-site evidence indicates the attack was aimed exclusively at logistics infrastructure and civilian personnel. Despite repeated assaults, Ukrainian ports continue to operate, demonstrating resilience against Russia’s attempts to fully block maritime trade routes. Recovery efforts, including fire suppression and assessment of material damage, are currently underway to restore infrastructure.
Earlier, during massive Russian attacks on the infrastructure of the Pivdennyi port in Odesa region, vegetable oil spills were recorded in the Black Sea.
According to Serhiy Lysak, head of the Odesa Military-Civil Administration, oil-like stains and dead birds were found on two beaches in Odesa, and an investigation into the incident has been launched.
