Live: Several killed in Ukraine's Odesa as strikes intensify across Ukraine
France 24 Europe
by Natasha LIFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Russian airstrikes in Ukraine escalated sharply ahead of the four-year anniversary of the war, with reports of casualties and infrastructure damage across key regions. In Odesa, two people were killed when Russian drones targeted industrial, energy, and civilian sites, according to regional governor Oleg Kiper. Further north, missile strikes hit Kharkiv's Kholodnogirsky district, though no immediate casualties were reported. Meanwhile, a strike in Zaporizhzhia injured at least two individuals.
The heightened military activity coincides with growing economic pressures on Russia. As oil revenues decline and the budget deficit rises, the Kremlin has imposed new taxes on businesses and consumers, leading to financial strain for ordinary Russians. Small business owners have described shrinking demand, rising costs, and increased tax burdens, forcing some to downsize or close operations entirely.
South Korea has also taken a symbolic stand against Russia's narrative of victory, urging its embassy in Seoul to remove a large banner reading "Victory will be ours." The request comes as the war anniversary approaches, highlighting global discomfort with Russian propaganda. Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to grapple with the humanitarian and infrastructural challenges posed by ongoing attacks.
The situation underscores the broader implications of the conflict for both Russia and Ukraine. For Russia, economic pain is intensifying at home while its international standing erodes. For Ukraine, the resilience of its people and infrastructure remains a focal point amid relentless bombardment. The global community watches closely as the war's anniversary serves as a reminder of its ongoing impact on lives and economies worldwide.
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Originally published on France 24 Europe on 2/23/2026