Russia targets residential neighborhoods of Odesa, killing 2, injuring 15

Russia continues its terror on Ukraine’s civilian population, targeting Odesa with an overnight drone barrage that killed two people and injured fifteen others, according to local authorities.

Governor Oleh Kiper confirmed the casualties and said emergency services are providing medical assistance to the injured. The attack damaged several sites, including multi-story apartment buildings, private homes, a supermarket, a school, and vehicles.

“Fires broke out in several areas, which our rescuers are working to extinguish,” Kiper said, adding that emergency tents have been set up to support recovery efforts.

This strike follows a deadly wave of Russian attacks on April 30 that left at least three dead and 70 injured. Such assaults have become a regular part of Russia’s campaign against Ukrainian cities, often involving missiles and drones.

Meanwhile, on April 28, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a so-called “humanitarian” truce set to begin on May 8 to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed the offer, citing continued Russian strikes on civilians as evidence that Moscow has no real interest in peace.

“We value human lives, not parades,” Zelensky said. “That’s why we believe — and the world believes — that there is no reason to wait until May 8.”

Ukraine has supported a U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire since March 11, but Russia has rejected the terms, instead presenting broad demands seen as obstacles to peace. Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s position on April 23, calling for an “immediate, full, and unconditional ceasefire.”

Just recently, Russia struck the Dnipropetrovsk region, leaving children under rubble. A thirteen year old girl died as a result of sustained injuries.