Russia launched a significant attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure on Thursday, leaving over one million households without power, according to Ukrainian officials. This marks the second large-scale strike on Ukraine’s power grid in less than two weeks.
The assault, involving over 200 missiles and drones, targeted multiple regions across Ukraine, with emergency power outages implemented nationwide. Areas hit include Lviv, Rivne, Volyn, and Ivano Frankivsk, as reported by The Associated Press.
Zelenskyy Denounces “Insidious Escalation”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the strikes, noting that Kalibr cruise missiles equipped with cluster munitions were used, impacting civilian targets. Calling the attack an “insidious escalation,” Zelenskyy urged Western nations to expedite the delivery of promised air defense systems.
“Each such attack proves that air defense systems are needed now in Ukraine, where they save lives, and not at storage bases,” Zelenskyy stated on Telegram.
Winter Warfare Tactics
Andrii Yermak, head of Ukraine’s presidential office, accused Russia of stockpiling missiles for a strategic winter offensive, with alleged assistance from allies such as North Korea.
Russia’s attacks during the winter months aim to deprive Ukrainian civilians of heat and clean water, while also disrupting the production of military assets, including missiles, drones, and armored vehicles.
Significant Damage to Ukraine’s Energy Grid
In the nearly three years since the war began, Russia has destroyed almost half of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, leaving the country vulnerable to such attacks, especially during the harsh winter season.
Global Response
The international community continues to monitor the escalating crisis, as Zelenskyy’s appeal for air defense systems underscores Ukraine’s pressing need for support to protect its energy and civilian infrastructure.
