On March 6, 2024, a Russian missile strike in Odessa, Ukraine aimed at a commercial port and a Ukrainian naval drone hangar resulted in five deaths and several injuries.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis were present in Odessa during the attack, underlining the conflict's direct threat to national leaders.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen condemned the attack, labeling it a 'despicable' act of terror, and reiterated EU support for Ukraine.

The Russian Ministry of Defense acknowledged the strike, reinforcing the persistent tensions and hostilities between Russia and Ukraine.

The incident signals a significant escalation in the Ukraine conflict, with high-level foreign visits to Ukraine being subject to security risks.

The timing of the strike coincides with discussions about the Zaporijjia nuclear power plant's status, emphasizing the broader regional and global security concerns.