Russian drones attacked the Odesa region early Monday morning, August 4, sparking large fires and widespread damage.
According to the State Emergency Service (DSNS), the worst destruction occurred at the local radio market, where flames tore through dozens of shopping pavilions selling electronics and household appliances.
A fire also broke out in a non-functioning dormitory and was later extinguished by emergency crews.
In the Odesa district, a private house was damaged. The homeowner reportedly managed to put out the fire in his yard on his own.
No casualties or injuries have been reported.
Meanwhile, an air alert has been declared in Kyiv as of 8:54 a.m. The Ukrainian Air Force reported spotting a Russian reconnaissance UAV between Chernihiv and the village of Honcharivske, which may be adjusting fire for Russian attacks. Air defense units have been deployed to intercept it.
“In case of an alert - go to shelter,” the Air Force warned in a Telegram message.
Later, the Air Force reported that the missile threat had expanded to all of Ukraine after a Russian MiG-31K - capable of launching Kinzhal missiles - was detected taking off.
Following the alert, reports emerged of a Kinzhal missile heading toward the Zhytomyr and Khmelnytskyi regions.
A Russian drone strike on July 24 caused widespread damage in Odesa, hitting residential buildings, historic landmarks, and parts of the city’s UNESCO-protected center, according to local officials.
The nearly 200-year-old Pryvoz Market - an iconic symbol of the city - caught fire during the attack. Fire crews continued battling the blaze into the morning as smoke rose above surrounding buildings. The market has withstood wars, revolutions, and even the Nazi blockade during World War II.
A nine-story residential building was also severely damaged. The 5th through 8th floors were destroyed, with fires breaking out on the 5th and 6th. Authorities warned the structure is at risk of collapse.
Emergency crews evacuated 33 residents and rescued five people trapped inside. Search dogs were brought in to locate anyone who might still be inside.
The regional governor, Oleh Kiper, said the attack sparked multiple fires across the city, including at a two-story home, a gas station, and several market stalls. He added that although air defenses were active, some drones still got through, causing fires and damaging historic architecture in the protected city center.
Since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, Odesa has been a regular target. Its historic center was added to UNESCO’s list of endangered sites last year.