In the southern Ukrainian city of Odesa, at least ten people have been killed and over 60 injured in separate Russian missile attacks on April 30, 2024. One of the most significant incidents occurred at an educational institution known locally as the 'Harry Potter castle' due to its ornate architecture. The building houses the Odesa Law Academy and is also the official residence of former lawmaker Serhiy Kivalov.
According to various sources, including Ukrainian officials and media reports, at least five people were killed in the attack on this iconic building. Among them was a prominent figure, Mr. Kivalov, who was also injured in the incident. Four more people died later due to their injuries.
The strikes came amid heightened tensions between Russia and Ukraine over territorial disputes and allegations of military aggression from both sides.
Ukrainian authorities believe that Russia used an Iskander ballistic missile with cluster munitions in the attack on the 'Harry Potter castle'. The use of such weapons is prohibited by international treaties, including the Convention on Cluster Munitions, neither of which have been signed by Russia or Ukraine.
The attacks caused extensive damage to nearby residential buildings and infrastructure facilities. Nearly 20 buildings were damaged in total.
Russia has not yet commented on the allegations but has previously denied using cluster munitions in its military operations in Ukraine. The Kremlin-appointed official, Sergey Aksyonov, who runs occupied Crimea, warned people not to approach possible unexploded ordinance and urged them not to film or post videos of Russian air defenses in action.
The United States has condemned the attacks and called for an immediate ceasefire. Nato Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg also expressed concern over the situation, stating that 'serious delays' in aid deliveries from Ukraine's allies had allowed Russians to advance on the war frontline.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
