Janice R. Andrews
Russian forces launched a large-scale missile attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, causing significant power outages and casualties, Ukrainian officials reported on Wednesday. The assault, involving cruise and ballistic missiles, targeted key cities like Kharkiv and Dnipro.
Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko confirmed the attack, stating on Telegram, “The enemy is again massively targeting the energy sector.” In response, emergency power cuts have been implemented to prevent further damage to the power grid.
In Kharkiv, at least six people were injured, and civilian infrastructure sustained damage, reported regional governor Oleh Syniehubov. Meanwhile, Dnipro’s Governor Serhiy Lysak warned residents to stay sheltered as freezing temperatures set in, confirming one death and 17 injuries from previous strikes.
DTEK, Ukraine’s largest private energy provider, said this was the 13th major attack on the country’s energy infrastructure this year. The relentless assaults have severely damaged nearly half of Ukraine’s generating capacity, leading to widespread blackouts.
Air raid alerts have been issued nationwide as Ukraine braces for continued missile threats. The Ukrainian military urged citizens to stay in safe areas until the danger passes.
These missile strikes reflect Russia’s ongoing strategy to cripple Ukraine’s energy system. In November, a similar attack left seven dead and caused major power disruptions. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attacks as “energy terrorism,” highlighting the challenges Ukrainians face amid the war and a harsh winter.
