Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky commented on the situation in the Odesa region during a meeting with journalists on December 20, following another large-scale attack by Russia. The discussion focused on logistics, regional protection, and personnel decisions in the air command.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Dismissal of the Head of the Southern Military Command and Strengthening Air Defense
Volodymyr Zelensky announced a change in leadership at the Southern Air Command. In his opinion, the situation requires an operational response and an enhancement of protection for the civilian population and infrastructure. The President emphasized the importance of swift decisions for effective counteraction against threats from the Russian Federation.
“We will fight for logistics, strengthen air defense, and command. I discussed the issue of replacing the commander of the Southern Air Command, Karpenko, because we need to respond in a timely manner, quickly, no matter how difficult it may be, and we must protect our people, Odesa, and our other regions to the maximum,” he stressed.
Logistics and Transportation Situation in Odesa Region
Following the Russian shelling of the bridge near the village of Mayaki in the Odesa region, transportation links were promptly restored. According to Viktor Mykyta, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, traffic has returned to normal. The official emphasized that there will be no logistical collapse, all cargo is being delivered, and banking and government institutions are operating as usual. Despite some minor inconveniences, the overall situation is under control.
Recall that on the evening of December 18, Russia launched a drone attack on the bridge over the Dniester near Mayaki, which is a key transport route between Odesa and Moldova. As a result, the checkpoints in the Palanka area are operating partially, and traffic to Odesa has been redirected through other routes, leading to significant delays. The Odesa-Reni route is currently closed.