President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, held a coordination meeting regarding the overnight Russian attack on Odessa Oblast, Zhytomyr Oblast, and other regions of Ukraine.
Source: Volodymyr Zelensky.
Zelensky responded to the overnight attack by Russia
Zelensky emphasized that the Russian forces deliberately targeted the port of Odessa. Russian terrorists consciously aimed at the grain infrastructure, and each Russian rocket is not only a strike against Ukraine but also against everyone in the world who aspires to a normal and secure life.
The President was briefed on the consequences of the missile strikes by Vice Prime Minister Kubrakov and Minister of Internal Affairs Klymenko. There were also briefings by the Chief Commander Zaluzhny and the Commander of the Air Force Oleshchuk.
“Instructed the military to strengthen the protection of people and port infrastructure, while the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was tasked with intensifying contacts with partners to increase pressure on the terrorist state and ensure the continued normal export of Ukrainian grain,” the President announced.
Kubrakov has already noted that the grain infrastructure of international and Ukrainian traders and carriers such as Kernel, Viterra, and CMA CGM Group has been damaged. Mykhailo Podoliak, an advisor to the head of the Presidential Office, pointed out that the strike on Odessa specifically revealed Russia’s attitude towards food security, African countries, the UN, and the prospects of global hunger.
Russia attacked the port of Odessa
It should be noted that during the night of July 19th, Russian forces targeted the infrastructure of the port and warehouses in the region. The occupiers launched Oniks and Kh-22 missiles at the port and critical infrastructure of Odessa.
They hit the grain and oil terminals, damaging the reservoirs and loading equipment, resulting in a fire, as reported by the Southern Regional Emergency Service. The explosive shockwave also damaged several residential buildings. It is known that there were ten injuries, including a 9-year-old boy.