Russia has launched a major missile strike on Ukraine’s power infrastructure, reports Kyiv

Russia conducted a significant missile assault on Ukrainian energy infrastructure during the morning rush hour on Friday, according to reports from Kyiv. Explosions were also reported in the Black Sea port city of Odesa and various locations in western Ukraine.

Throughout much of the year, Russian forces have focused on Ukraine‘s electricity network, intensifying their campaign last month, which has resulted in prolonged power outages affecting millions as the conflict approaches its 34th month.

“Russia‘s objective is to strip us of our energy resources. In response, we must eliminate its capacity for terror. I once again urge the immediate provision of 20 NASAMS, HAWK, or IRIS-T air defense systems,” stated Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha in a post on X.

An industry insider informed Reuters that the missile strikes on Friday specifically targeted Ukrainian power substations and included a greater number of attacks on gas infrastructure compared to previous operations.

As the assault progressed, energy officials announced extended emergency power outages, though it remained unclear if this was due to new damage or a precautionary measure. There were no immediate reports of injuries or fatalities.

According to the CEO of power company Yasno, approximately half of its 3.5 million customers were without electricity on Friday morning. The full extent of the damage remains difficult to determine, as officials have been reticent to provide detailed information following repeated Russian strikes on the power grid.

Lviv Region Under Attack

Officials in the Lviv region have confirmed that energy facilities have been targeted, necessitating adjustments to the power outage schedule due to reported damage. While Russia claims it does not aim at civilian infrastructure, it considers the power grid a legitimate military target. This year, Ukraine’s energy infrastructure has endured 11 waves of assaults, resulting in extensive damage and prolonged power outages nationwide.

The morning missile strike followed an overnight assault involving numerous drones. Concurrently, Russian forces are achieving their most rapid territorial advances in eastern Ukraine since 2022, as they strive to capture the entire industrial Donbas region. “The enemy persists in its campaign of terror. Once again, the energy sector throughout Ukraine is facing significant attacks,” Galushchenko stated in a Facebook post.