Odesa under missile attack for fifth day; Russia's 'shadow fleet' tankers hit for first time in Black Sea
Russian missile strikes on the Odesa region continue for the fifth consecutive day. For the first time, tankers of Russia's 'shadow fleet' have been attacked in the Black Sea. Meanwhile, Russian oil refining has fallen to a 21-year low, and the US Senate has introduced a bill for 'hellish sanctions' against Russia.
Russian forces have been launching missile attacks on the Odesa region for the fifth day in a row. Civilian casualties have been reported as a result of the shelling, though the exact number of victims has not been disclosed. The strikes have caused significant damage to infrastructure in the area.
In a notable development in the Black Sea, tankers belonging to Russia's so-called 'shadow fleet'—vessels used to circumvent international sanctions on Russian oil exports—were attacked for the first time. The details of the attack remain unclear, but it marks an escalation in maritime operations.
Meanwhile, Russia's oil refining industry has suffered a sharp decline, reaching its lowest output in 21 years. This is attributed to Western sanctions and drone strikes by Ukraine on Russian oil facilities.
The US Senate has introduced a new bill proposing 'hellish sanctions' against Russia, including additional restrictions on the energy sector and financial system. The bill is pending further review and a potential vote in the coming days.
