Russia Escalates Drone Attacks, Threatens Ukraine's Vital Port Exports
Impact of Russian Drone Strikes on Ukrainian Port Infrastructure
Increased Frequency and Scale of Attacks
KYIV, May 4 (Reuters) - Russia has stepped up its targeting of Ukrainian port infrastructure this year, Kyiv said on Monday, using more than 800 drones in its attacks in the first four months of 2026, more than 10 times the number in the same period a year ago.
Strategic Importance of Odesa Region Seaports
Keeping seaports in the southern Odesa region open is crucial for Ukraine and its wartime economy as exports, mostly of grains and small volumes of metal, are key for its hard currency revenues as it seeks to repel Russia.
Export Volumes Amid Ongoing Attacks
Despite the attacks, more than 30 million metric tons of cargo have been processed at Ukraine's ports since the start of the year, Ukraine's Infrastructure Minister Oleksii Kuleba said.
Damage to Port Infrastructure and Civilian Vessels
Extent of Destruction Since Invasion
Ukraine's southern region has been subject to almost daily Russian attacks in recent months, with officials regularly reporting damage to port infrastructure and warehouses.
Statistics on Damaged Facilities and Vessels
Since the start of Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russian strikes have damaged or partially destroyed more than 900 port facilities, including 177 civilian vessels, Kuleba said on the Telegram app.
Economic Consequences for Ukraine
Export Performance Data
Central bank data showed that year-on-year exports of goods from Ukraine rose by only 0.6% in March.
(Reporting by Yuliia Dysa; Editing by Alexander Smith)
