Ruslan Bodelan, the former mayor of Odesa and a notable Soviet and Ukrainian politician, has passed away at the age of 83. 

This was announced by Oleg Kiper, the head of the regional military administration.

Direct quote: "It is with deep sorrow that I announce the passing of Ruslan Bodelan. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. His life was deeply intertwined with the history of Odesa — he held significant positions and contributed to the city's and region's development." 

Background: Bodelan served as mayor from 1998 to 2005. He was also a member of parliament and led the Odesa regional state administration.

Following the Orange Revolution, on April 26, 2005, a criminal case was opened against Ruslan Bodelan for abuse of power in favor of third parties. On May 5 of the same year, he was placed on the international wanted list. By 2010, all criminal proceedings against him were closed.

In 2005, Bodelan moved to Russia, where he lived in St. Petersburg and served as deputy head of the local international trade port. In January 2006, he officially obtained Russian citizenship. He returned to Odesa in April 2010.