Russia launches deadly drone strike on Ukraine hours after Kyiv signs minerals deal with US

It comes just hours after Ukraine signed a minerals deal with the United States, paving the way for further White House support for Kyiv.

High-rise buildings, a supermarket and a school were damaged in the Russian strike, the governor of the region said.

"The enemy is attacking Odesa with strike drones. There is considerable damage to civilian infrastructure, particularly dwellings," Oleh Kiper posted on Telegram.

"Two people died and five others were injured as a result of the strike. Medics are providing all necessary assistance to the victims," he said.

Read more: US and Ukraine sign minerals deal and agree to establish investment fund

The city's Mayor Gennady Trukhanov added: "The enemy has launched another massive attack on the city. Residential buildings and civilian infrastructure have been damaged in various areas of Odessa."

Unverified videos shared on social media show the moment the Kremlin strike hit the city.

It comes after the US and Ukraine signed a minerals deal after weeks of negotiations, paving the way for further Washington support for Kyiv.

Specific details remain unclear, but it is believed the agreement includes the creation of a US-Ukraine reconstruction investment fund.

The minerals deal may see the US mine Ukraine for precious minerals and rare earths, in what Trump has described as ‘getting our money back’, referencing US military support and aid for the country since 2022.

It is widely understood the deal is key to ensuring Ukraine will receive future US military support.

The Treasury said the deal signals to Russia that Trump's administration is committed to peace negotiations centred on a free, sovereign and prosperous Ukraine.

“As you know, we're looking for rare earth all the time," Trump said.

"They have a lot, and we made a deal, so we can start digging and doing what we have to do. It's also good for them."