Odesa Hit by Night Drone Strike: Residential High-Rise Damaged, One Injured.

22.05.2026 459

22.05.2026 459

Destruction of residential nine-story building in Odesa

Drone Attack on Odesa

According to UATV: In the early hours of March 31, 2023, around 6:00 AM, the Russian military launched a drone assault on the city of Odesa. A 50-year-old man was injured in the attack. One of the unmanned aerial vehicles struck a nine-story residential building, causing damage to its exterior, including the balconies of apartments across three floors.

The strike sparked fires on a balcony and a lower floor. Witnesses described terrifying moments. One resident recalled:

“I was sleeping here, then I ran for water, carried basins—I put out the first fire myself. Later, rescue services arrived. Otherwise, if I hadn’t extinguished it, everything would have been lost.”

Another local added: 'I’m heading outside now because I’m badly affected by the smoke. I inhaled too much. It was so smoky in here I wouldn’t have seen you—everything in the apartment was burning, and the curtains caught fire badly. The fire inside was something you’d rather not see.'

Impact on the City

The attack brought city life to a standstill: government offices, schools, kindergartens, and banks all suspended operations. Odesa faces regular assaults every few hours, adding immense strain on its residents.

This incident serves as yet another grim reminder of how military conflict affects Ukraine’s civilian population, particularly in Odesa, which has endured repeated strikes. The constant threat from drones and other weaponry makes daily life perilous and uncertain. At the same time, the swift response from local residents and emergency crews highlights their bravery and readiness to act in crises—a crucial quality amid war.