Russian forces targeted energy infrastructure around Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, with missiles and drones, causing significant issues with power, water, and heating as temperatures approached freezing. The attacks occurred just three days before planned US-mediated talks between Russia and Ukraine. Explosions rocked Kyiv, and several ballistic missiles struck important sites, including the Northern Bridge over the Dnipro River. The Ukrainian energy ministry reported serious damage to facilities that supply power from nuclear plants to Kyiv and surrounding areas, leading President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to confirm difficulties in essential services and noting that only four out of 36 missiles were intercepted.
The overnight assaults resulted in at least two deaths and numerous injuries across Ukraine, damaging various buildings. The Russian defense ministry claimed it targeted the military-industrial sector and infrastructure in Kyiv. In retaliation, Ukraine conducted drone and missile strikes on some Russian regions, which caused minor damage but no casualties.
As tensions increase, Russia has intensified its air campaigns against Ukraine, focusing on urban infrastructure. Residents in impacted areas described the aftermath of the strikes, emphasizing that survival is more important than material loss. Ukrainian and Russian officials are set to meet for three-way talks in Abu Dhabi, which will include significant military and diplomatic figures. These dialogues coincide with expectations for greater US support for Ukraine following the recent midterm elections. Zelenskiy expressed hopes for more international assistance in light of Russia’s continuing attacks.
With information from Reuters
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