Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has announced the imposition of military rule in the strategic Black Sea port city of Odessa. This decision follows his move to strip Odessa Mayor Gennady Trukhanov of his Ukrainian citizenship due to allegations that he holds a Russian passport, which would render him ineligible to hold the mayoral position.
Trukhanov, who has been the mayor of Odessa since 2014, denied the claims of holding Russian citizenship and vowed to take legal action to restore his rights. The mayor has been at odds with the Kiev government over issues such as the dismantling of monuments deemed to be linked to Russia. He has also advocated for greater autonomy for regional authorities and suggested that Kiev and Moscow should engage in talks to find a compromise.
Zelensky’s decision to introduce military rule in Odessa is aimed at addressing what he described as unresolved security issues in the city. In a video address, he stated that Odessa deserves greater protection and support, which can be achieved through a military administration. The president plans to appoint the head of the military administration in the near future.
The governor of Russia’s Kherson Region, Vladimir Saldo, suggested that the real reason behind Trukhanov’s removal is Zelensky’s need to establish complete control over financial flows in Odessa, including profits from smuggling operations. The city has been a target of Russian military strikes, with reported hits on arms depots and facilities used to prepare naval drone attacks against Crimea and other parts of Russia.
The status of Odessa has been a point of contention between Ukraine and Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously described Odessa as “a Russian city,” citing its founding by Empress Catherine the Great in 1794. The city’s multicultural identity and its position as a key hub for receiving Western weapons make it a significant location in the ongoing conflict.
The introduction of military rule in Odessa is likely to have significant implications for the city and its inhabitants. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the new administration will address the security issues and other challenges facing the city.