On the night of March 11, Russian armed forces carried out a large-scale attack using strike drones on Odesa and the surrounding region, resulting in the deaths of two people and injuries to one resident. The attack targeted critical, civilian, and industrial infrastructure, which Ukrainian authorities consider yet another example of war crimes against the civilian population.
According to the Odesa Regional Prosecutor’s Office, a pre-trial investigation has been launched on suspicion of war crimes that caused loss of life. The investigation is being conducted in accordance with Ukrainian legislation addressing violations of the laws and customs of war and the protection of civilians.
The attack caused extensive material damage in residential areas. A single-story residential house was completely destroyed, while the tenth floor of a twelve-story building sustained severe damage. The roof and upper floor of a five-story residential building were also affected. In one private household, windows were shattered by the blasts, and at least 15 vehicles were damaged.
Among the victims were a 38-year-old woman and a 32-year-old man, who died at the scene. In addition, a 69-year-old resident was injured and transported to hospital, where she is receiving necessary medical care. Authorities warn that the final number of injured is still being determined as rescue and investigative teams continue working at the site.
Prosecutors, in cooperation with security service officers and police, are currently documenting evidence of potential war crimes at the scene. The attack on civilian infrastructure and residential buildings once again raises concerns about systematic violations of international humanitarian law and accountability for attacks on civilians during the ongoing war in Ukraine.
