Russia attacks Ukraine’s Odesa, Kyiv; blasts heard in Sevastopol

Russia has launched a second night of air raids on Ukraine’s port city of Odessa as well as attacking the capital Kyiv, Ukrainian officials said, while reports also emerged of explosions in the Crimean port city of Sevastopol.

Odessa regional Governor Oleh Kiper said on social media early on Wednesday that air defence systems were engaged in repelling a Russian air attack and urged residents to stay in shelters.

 Sounds of explosions were heard in Ukraine’s capital Kiev and the surrounding Kiev Region early on Wednesday as air defenses engaged targets above the city, Kiev Mayor Vitaly Klichko said.

"Sounds of explosions are heard in Kiev. Air defenses are in action. The same applies to the [Kiev] region," the official wrote.

An air raid warning for the area was issued at 4:41 a.m.