Russia Strikes Two Epicentr Shopping Centres in Odesa on Ukraine’s Independence Day

Russia struck two Epicentr shopping centres in Odesa on the morning of August 24, as Ukraine marks its 35's Independence Day. The attack caused fires at the sites and injured civilians, while emergency crews are continuing to work at the scene.

According to preliminary information, the Russian strike hit civilian infrastructure in Odesa during a wider attack on the city and the region. The two Epicentr shopping centres were among the locations affected. Rescue workers are currently responding to the consequences of the strikes, extinguishing fires and assessing the damage.

The scale of the destruction is still being established. Local authorities are expected to provide further information on the number and condition of those injured, as well as the extent of damage to civilian and energy infrastructure.

The attack came as Russia launched another wave of strikes against Ukraine. Odesa and the surrounding region have repeatedly been targeted by Russian missiles and drones, with the attacks often affecting residential areas, businesses and critical infrastructure.

The choice of targets on Monday is particularly stark. Epicentr is a civilian retail chain, and the damaged sites were operating as ordinary commercial facilities rather than military positions. The attack once again demonstrates how Russia's aerial campaign continues to put civilian infrastructure under pressure far from the immediate frontline.

No ceasefire on Independence Day

Ukraine is marking its Independence Day today, but Russia has not stopped its attacks.

August 24 is one of the country's most important national dates, marking the declaration of independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. But after Russia occupied Crimea and parts of eastern Ukraine in 2014, and launched its full-scale invasion in 2022, the meaning of the anniversary changed fundamentally.

For Ukrainians, independence is no longer simply a historical achievement. It is something the country continues to defend every day.

That reality is particularly visible this year. Instead of a traditional nationwide celebration, Ukraine is marking the anniversary under wartime restrictions and heightened security. In Odesa, emergency crews are working at the sites of Russian strikes while the country commemorates 35 years of independence.

The timing also comes as European leaders gather in Kyiv to demonstrate support for Ukraine and discuss its security and defence needs. Their presence is intended to show that European backing remains in place as the war continues.

But the strikes provide a more immediate picture of the situation on the ground.

While diplomats discuss security guarantees, military assistance and the possibility of a future peace agreement, Russian forces continue to launch attacks against Ukrainian cities.

The Odesa strike is therefore more than another episode in the ongoing aerial campaign. It is a reminder that, despite diplomatic efforts and international pressure, there is still no ceasefire.