Massive Russian missile strikes target Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, leaving widespread damage and casualties.
Key Developments
- Scale of the Attack:
- Ukraine’s air force reported detecting 184 missiles and drones during a large-scale overnight strike.
- Many were intercepted or missed their targets, but significant damage was inflicted on Ukraine’s energy sector.
- Casualties and Impact:
- Casualty figures remain undisclosed, but the strikes caused power cuts in major areas, including Kyiv and Kharkiv.
- In Kharkiv, half a million residents were left without water, electricity, or heating in freezing conditions.
- Moscow’s Statement:
- Russia confirmed the attack, stating its forces targeted “critical” energy facilities.
- The Russian defense ministry declared the operation a success, claiming all objectives were achieved.
- Response from Leaders:
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the strikes as a “conscious choice” aimed at causing suffering during Christmas.
- US President Joe Biden called the attacks “outrageous,” accusing Russia of trying to deprive Ukrainians of heat and electricity during winter.
- Restoration Efforts:
- Ukrainian energy companies, including DTEK and Ukrenergo, are working to restore power, warning of potential prolonged outages.
- International Reaction:
- Moldovan President Maia Sandu condemned the violation of Moldovan airspace by a Russian missile.
- Romania, however, stated it did not detect any missile within its airspace.
Ukrainians Persevere
Despite the devastation, Ukrainians remain resilient. In Kyiv, residents sought shelter in metro stations while vowing to continue Christmas celebrations.
Local residents shared their determination to maintain traditions, with one woman saying, “Christmas is not canceled,” despite the ongoing attacks.
Background
This marks the 13th major Russian assault on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure in 2023, with 80% of the network already damaged according to President Zelensky.
The attack underscores Moscow’s strategy of targeting critical civilian infrastructure to undermine Ukrainian morale and disrupt daily life.
