By Ezekiel David
Russian drone and missile strikes hit energy infrastructure in northern Ukraine overnight, resulting in extensive outages and a sizable fire in the west, according to Ukrainian officials.
The air assault, which Ukrainian forces largely repelled, marks a continuation of Russia’s strategy of targeting critical infrastructure as the war approaches its second year.
In the Sumy region bordering Russia, an energy facility was hit, leaving 72 settlements and over 18,500 consumers without power. Emergency crews were immediately dispatched to address the damage.
Meanwhile, in the Ternopil region, an industrial facility and fuel reservoir were struck, igniting a massive fire and raising concerns about elevated chlorine levels in the air. Authorities urged residents to remain indoors as firefighters battled the blaze.
Twenty-six drones and three ballistic missiles were intercepted, Ukrainian officials confirmed. The attacks were nevertheless successful in causing damage, underscoring the continued difficulties that Ukraine’s energy industry faces.
Ukraine still struggles with power outages even after importing electricity from its neighbours in Europe. As a result, planned blackouts are frequently implemented, especially in the evenings when demand is highest.
Neither Russia nor Ukraine have commented on the specific targets of the recent attacks. However, both sides maintain that their operations focus on military objectives, despite the documented toll on civilian infrastructure and lives.
(Source: Reuters)