Odessa in the Crosshairs: Patrushev Signals Russian Demands

Kremlin advisor Nikolai Patrushev claims that Odessa historically belongs to Russia. In an interview with TASS, he stated that the city has been “Russian for two centuries” and that the majority of its inhabitants no longer wish to be associated with Kyiv. He highlighted the city’s roots under Catherine the Great and its role as a “hero city” during World War II.

Patrushev also noted that today Odessa serves as a base for “naval saboteurs and weapons transfers,” violating the city’s Russian heritage.

A Threat in the Shadow of Peace

Although naval operations against Odessa were halted following the Black Sea Fleet’s defeat, the city remains part of the Kremlin’s plans.

Sources mention that President Putin himself hinted at a possible attack if Ukraine rejects Russian demands in future peace negotiations.

Moscow insists that the regions of Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson be recognized as Russian—and that Ukraine should withdraw its troops.

“The People’s Will” as Justification

“Our country respects the will of the people,” said Patrushev, referring to previously annexed areas. He paints a picture of an Odessa awaiting Russian reunification—despite international opposition to both the rhetoric and the annexations.

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