Zelenskyy visits Odesa to discuss air defense and more helicopters

In a Telegram post, the Ukrainian president said he had held a security meeting with the command of the Ukrainian Navy. The discussions focused on countering Russia's ongoing drone and missile attacks, as well as preparedness to respond to threats at sea. Participants also reviewed Ukraine's deep-strike capabilities, efforts to strengthen communications systems, mine countermeasures, and the training and equipment of naval personnel.

According to Zelenskyy, the meeting also covered increasing the number of helicopters to strengthen regional air defenses and counter Russian drones. The military showcased the Navy's strike capabilities, including Neptune and Harpoon missile systems, as well as new drones and torpedoes. The participants discussed further measures needed to enhance the Navy's combat capabilities.

Russia regularly attacks Odesa and surrounding Oblast. On June 23, a 26-year-old woman was killed in a Russian drone strike while she was on a beach in Odesa.

On July 1, Russia launched a ballistic missile strike on Odesa Oblast, destroying warehouses storing toilet paper and mineral fertilizers. The logistics hub belonged to the company Snizhna Panda. The attack killed two people and injured 13 others.