Russia strikes Ukrainian port city of Odesa, hours after NATO Secretary General’s visit

At least three civilians have been injured following Russian drone attacks on the Ukrainian port city of Odesa.

The attack started fires and caused extensive damage to local infrastructure with a church and pharmacy among the damaged buildings, regional authorities reported.

Ukraine’s Air Force said Russia launched 97 drones early Tuesday morning, of which 57 were shot down.

The drone attack against Odesa was followed by the shelling of the port city of Kherson on Wednesday morning.

The strike resulted in one fatality and at least three injuries, according to Ukraine’s Emergency Services.

Last week, the Russian military received international condemnation for the deaths of 34 civilians in the north-eastern town of Sumy while celebrating Palm Sunday.

The attacks come only hours after NATO General Secretary Mark Rutte finished a surprise visit to Odesa where he met with Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

“I’m here today because I believe Ukraine’s people deserve real peace, real safety and security in their country, in their homes,” Rutte said, adding that he supported ceasefire talks in Saudi Arabia.