Russia launched a significant air campaign against Ukraine’s energy grid on Wednesday, targeting power facilities around Kyiv and other areas. This attack, described as the heaviest in months, killed seven people, according to Ukrainian officials. The strikes followed a series of drone attacks mainly on the capital, signaling a likely winter of such attacks aimed at disrupting energy supply during a time when Ukrainian air defenses are limited.
Prime Minister Sergii Koretskyi mentioned that since summer, attacks on energy infrastructure have become almost daily. He noted that while winter last year saw severe damage to power and heating systems, this recent combined assault was unprecedented since the previous heating season ended. Residents in Kyiv awoke to smoke from the attacks, with damage reported at a vital power plant and various energy facilities.
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy confirmed that the primary focus of the assault was energy infrastructure, involving nearly 190 drones and missiles, with some intercepted. Critical infrastructure was targeted in multiple regions, with casualties reported, including a child. Moscow claimed responsibility for attacks on power plants and port facilities.
As winter approaches, officials like Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha characterized the attacks as a tactic to pressure Ukrainian civilians amidst ongoing battlefield challenges in the east. Prime Minister Koretskyi has instructed local authorities to ensure backup power systems are ready and to expedite energy diversification efforts. Meanwhile, Ukraine has intensified its own strikes against Russian targets, marking a continuation of the conflict. In related news, a drone exploded in Moldova, prompting military responses from NATO members Romania and Poland.
With information from Reuters
