Kyiv: In a harrowing escalation of hostilities, Russia launched a coordinated assault overnight, unleashing approximately 100 missiles and drones targeting crucial energy infrastructure across Ukraine, according to officials in Kyiv.
This latest onslaught underscores a distressing trend in the conflict’s tactics, with energy facilities repeatedly bearing the brunt of attacks, leading to severe damage and energy shortages as Ukrainian air defenses struggle to repel the relentless barrage of drones and missiles.
“The enemy launched 53 missiles of various types and 47 attack drones,” disclosed the Ukrainian air force, noting that they successfully intercepted 35 missiles and nearly all of the drones.
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The attack inflicted damage on two thermal power plants, confirmed by the operator DTEK, although precise locations were not divulged. In a Telegram post, the company described the assault as “another extremely difficult night for the Ukrainian energy sector,” lamenting the serious damage inflicted on equipment. This incident marked the sixth major attack on DTEK thermal power plants since mid-March.
Ukraine’s Energy Minister, German Galushchenko, revealed that Russia’s strikes targeted sites in five regions: Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk, Kirovograd, Ivano-Frankivsk, and Zaporizhzhia, spanning from the eastern frontlines to the western border with the EU.
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As a consequence, the ministry cautioned of potential power restrictions on Saturday evening in the aftermath of the assaults.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy unequivocally condemned Moscow’s actions, accusing Russia of exploiting the gaps in Ukraine’s air defense capabilities and the perceived wavering commitment among key Western allies. He reiterated his plea for enhanced support in procuring air defense systems, emphasizing the imperative of unity and resolve in confronting such aggression. Zelenskyy underscored that the world faces a pivotal test of humanity and determination, cautioning of dire consequences if the free world fails to stand united against such destabilizing actions.
