Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, deepens crisis

Russia has launched its 11th major assault on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure since March 2024, leaving over a million people without power, according to officials. 

The attacks targeted energy and fuel facilities, with Russia deploying 91 missiles and 97 drones. 

The Ukrainian Air Force confirmed 12 strikes hit their targets, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy condemned the offensive as a “despicable escalation,” citing the use of Cruise missiles with cluster munitions.

The strikes have led to widespread power outages during freezing winter temperatures, with all nuclear power units disconnected from the grid as a precaution. 

Ukrenergo, Ukraine’s state grid operator, has imposed deep power cuts nationwide to manage the damage.

Emergency generators are being used to maintain critical services in hospitals and schools. 

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has expressed serious concerns about the risks to nuclear safety. Director General Rafael Grossi called for military restraint near nuclear facilities, warning of the heightened risk of a nuclear incident.