The ballistic missile struck the Gothic-style structure, previously serving as both a private law academy and the residence of the notable former parliamentarian Serhiy Kivalov. The impact caused extensive devastation, triggering a massive firestorm that engulfed the building. Emergency responders immediately categorized the resulting blaze as “severe.” Footage and images released by Ukrainian authorities showed flames engulfing the castle’s cone-shaped towers and roof, while emergency response teams worked tirelessly to settle the fire and rescue those trapped in the mishap. Additionally, nearly 20 residential buildings and infrastructure facilities were damaged, causing significant disruption to the city’s daily life.
The strike on Odesa marked one of the most intense Russian attacks in recent weeks, as Russian forces deployed an onslaught of missiles, drones, and bombs against the port city. Dmytro Pletenchuk, a spokesman for the Ukrainian navy, disclosed that the weapon used in the strike was an Iskander-M ballistic missile equipped with a cluster warhead, a type of weapon designed for maximum destruction and is highly difficult to intercept.
The attack’s severe impact led to strong reactions from Ukrainian officials. Andriy Kostin, Ukraine’s Prosecutor General, condemned the assault, emphasizing that it demonstrated a blatant disregard for international humanitarian law. Kostin also mentioned that the strike’s indiscriminate nature suggested that it was intended to cause a serious number of civilian casualties. He vowed to hold accountable those who are responsible for the attack, adding that the ongoing investigation aims to find and prosecute those who issued the criminal orders.
Odesa Mayor Hennadii Trukhanov expressed his outrage, describing Russian forces as “monsters, beasts, savages, and scum” for targeting peaceful citizens. He noted that the missile struck people who were simply walking by the sea, highlighting the inhumanity of the attack.
The destruction of the ‘Harry Potter Castle’ and the tragic loss of innocent lives have intensified demands to end the conflict, as many express both sorrow and frustration over the prolonged violence. The ongoing war has claimed countless lives and caused widespread destruction, with Odesa bearing the brunt of missile and drone attacks since the conflict began over two years ago.
Russia has yet to issue a statement about the recent strike, while the international community watches events in Ukraine with growing concern. As investigations proceed and Ukraine seeks justice for the victims, this attack is a sobering reminder of the human cost of war and the urgent need for a peaceful resolution.
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