Voznesensk Saved Odesa: How the Fortress City Lives 3.5 Years into the War.

How Voznesensk Saved Odesa

In April 2022, the city of Voznesensk became a stronghold for the defense of southern Ukraine at the beginning of the war. According to the Wall Street Journal, if Russian troops had captured this city, they could have surrounded Odesa, particularly with a maritime assault.

The city is located at the crossroads of important routes to Odesa, Mykolaiv, and Kherson. Thanks to the significant self-organization of the local population, Voznesensk restored its territorial defense in just a few days. Mayor Yevhenii Velichko noted that the city was able to quickly organize its defense and build barricades, thanks to the heroic efforts of the Lviv 80th Airborne Brigade.

How Voznesensk Lives Today

After the war, the city suffered from shelling, but thanks to the state program E-Restoration and the support of international partners, it has begun its recovery journey. Despite the circumstances, the locals live and work, schools are functioning, and children are receiving education locally.

The city receives support from international partners who help not only financially but also provide necessary equipment, including medical supplies, worth a significant amount. However, the mayor notes that it is important to more actively engage and retain the attention of international partners to support the city’s projects.

Through the efforts of local residents and external support, Voznesensk has demonstrated strength and resilience in the challenging conditions of war, helping to save Odesa from encirclement. Despite the challenges, the city continues its path of recovery and development under the care of the state and international partners.