- In a series of intense assaults, Russia targets Ukraine's energy infrastructure, inflicting severe damage in the past few weeks.
In one of the heaviest assaults in two and a half years of conflict, Russia has heavily bombarded Ukraine with rockets, missiles, and drones from the sky. According to Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal via Telegram, 15 out of the 24 Ukrainian regions were affected, resulting in fatalities and injuries. The primary focus of these attacks was once again Ukraine's energy system. Among the damage was the hydroelectric power plant at the Kiev Reservoir. This resulted in power outages and shutdowns in the capital and other parts of the country.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy claimed Russia used more than 100 rockets and a similar number of combat drones. He reiterated Ukraine's plea to partner nations for permission to utilize Western weapons against Russian military targets within their territories. "Every leader, every partner of ours knows what decisive actions are needed to end this conflict fairly," Zelenskyy stated. For Ukraine, there should be no range limitations, as Russia is not limiting its attacks.
Due to the prolonged nature of the attacks, reports on casualties and damage were slow to emerge. Initial reports suggested five fatalities and 17 injuries across various regions. The bombardment occurred as people returned to work following the weekend and Independence Day celebrations.
Eight Hours of Air Raid in Kyiv
The air raid in Kyiv ended after approximately eight hours at 13:45 local time (12:45 CEST). Swarms of Russian combat drones continued to be detected in the city's airspace, driving residents to seek shelter in subway stations. Thousands of people were seen taking refuge in underground shelters.
The Ukrainian air force reported that the Russian army employed 11 long-range bombers Tu-95 as platforms for launching cruise missiles at certain times. Hypersonic Kinzhal missiles were also fired at Ukraine. The attacks also included Kalibr cruise missiles launched from the Black Sea. According to reports, dozens of drones were spotted in the sky.
Issues within Ukraine's Power Grid
Due to the proximity of Russian attacks to the Polish border, Polish interceptors were deployed, as reported by the news agency PAP. Additional allied aircraft were also reportedly involved in the operation.
"The enemy continues its efforts to plunge the Ukrainians into darkness," wrote Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko on Facebook. The situation is challenging. Energy companies such as Ukrenerho are working to restore power through emergency shutdowns. In areas without power, water supply frequently fails as well.
Russia Likely Targets Hydroelectric Power Plant
News agency Unian reported damage to the hydroelectric power plant in Kiev, citing a video of the destruction posted on Russian Telegram channels. According to the report, a fire broke out in the turbine room of the hydroelectric power plant, and the dam's road was damaged. The military administration of the Kiev region confirmed damage to two unspecified facilities of the energy infrastructure.
Since the start of the year 2023/24, Russia has attempted to disable Ukraine's power plants and energy infrastructure through multiple strategic air strikes. In an attack on December 29, the Russian army launched 122 missiles and cruise missiles, along with 36 drones, according to Kyiv's calculations. The reported casualties surpassed 30.
Ukraine has been facing a large-scale Russian invasion since February 2022. Last Saturday, Europe's second-largest country celebrated its 33rd anniversary of independence from the Soviet Union.
The intense aerial attack involved the use of numerous Russian combat drones and aircraft, such as Tu-95 bombers and Kinzhal missiles, targeting various parts of Ukraine, including Kyiv. (aircraft)
The damage to Ukraine's infrastructure, including power plants and energy systems, has resulted in substantial power outages and disruptions, requiring emergency measures and restoration efforts. (aircraft)
