Russia Targets Ukraine’s Energy Infrastructure
Russia has launched a record number of ballistic missiles and drone strikes targeting Ukraine’s energy sector, President Volodymyr Zelensky said. The attacks hit power plants and infrastructure in Kyiv, Kharkiv, and other regions, causing what energy company DTEK called “the most powerful blow” this year.
Harsh Winter Adds to Civilian Suffering
The strikes came as temperatures dropped to -20C (-4F), leaving over 1,000 residential blocks in Kyiv without heating. A power plant in Kharkiv was damaged beyond repair, worsening the crisis. Zelensky accused Russia of using winter conditions to terrorize civilians and called on Ukraine’s allies to apply maximum pressure on Moscow.
Civilian Heating Facilities Hit
D Some of the targeted plants only supplied heating to civilians, not electricity. Under the Geneva Convention, attacks on civilian infrastructure may constitute a war crime. Each strike makes repairs harder and increases the risk of widespread blackouts.
Engineers Work Around the Clock
Teams of engineers from across Ukraine are working day and night to fix the damage. Despite their efforts, there are not enough workers to meet the demand. Residents report going days, and in some cases weeks, without heating.
Public Response and Resilience
Zelensky said he would sleep in a local school equipped with a generator to stay warm. He condemned the attacks, saying, “They are bombing civilians. They want us to freeze and die.” Several residential buildings were damaged, and falling debris caused fires and injuries as Ukraine intercepted some missiles and drones.
