Retired U.S. Army General and former NATO Supreme Allied Commander in Europe Wesley Clark said this during an interview with Espreso TV.“I believe Russia’s strategic objective is Odesa. By capturing this port city, they aim to cut off Ukraine from export routes and cause severe economic harm. The most likely axis of advance would be from Zaporizhzhia and Kherson toward Mykolaiv and Odesa to block access to the Black Sea. To achieve this, they are doing two things: first, trying to divert Ukrainian forces northward by intensifying pressure in the Sumy and Kharkiv regions; and second, dragging Ukrainian troops into prolonged and exhausting battles to weaken their defense,” Clark explained.The general emphasized that the main task for Ukraine’s Armed Forces now is to halt Russian advances in Donetsk region, hold defensive lines in the south, and prevent Russia from gaining control over the northern Black Sea coast.“At the same time, if the enemy captures Pokrovsk and takes control of key road and rail junctions in central Donbas, it could increase pressure on Ukraine and pave the way for a future advance toward Odesa. The campaign is being waged across a wide front, and Ukraine’s forces must respond consistently and strategically. It’s crucial to understand Russia’s long-term objectives and manage reserves wisely. The key mission remains: stop the advance near Bakhmut, hold the south, and prevent control over the Black Sea’s northern shore,” Clark added.The General Staff of Ukraine reported that since the start of October 24, there have been 82 combat engagements along the front line, with Russian troops being most active in the Pokrovsk sector.Earlier that day, Russian forces used guided aerial bombs for the first time to strike civilian infrastructure in Odesa region.