Russian Forces Unleash Massive Attack on Ukraine’s Power Grid
Russian Forces Launch Barrage of Over 50 Cruise Missiles and Drones
Russian forces unleashed a nighttime barrage of over 50 cruise missiles and explosive drones at Ukraine’s power grid on Wednesday, targeting a wide area in what President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called a “massive” attack.
The Bombardment
The bombardment blasted targets in seven Ukrainian regions, including the Kyiv area and parts of the south and west, damaging homes and the country’s rail network. Three people, including an 8-year-old girl, were injured, according to officials.
Russia’s Aim
Russia has repeatedly pounded Ukraine’s energy infrastructure during the war, aiming to rob Ukrainian manufacturing of its energy supply, especially military plants, and crush public morale. The attacks have damaged nearly half of Ukraine’s power infrastructure since the start of the Kremlin’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, officials say. The damage is estimated at $12.5 billion, with $1 billion inflicted during the past two weeks.
Facts and Figures
* The attack was the fifth in the last six weeks targeting DTEK, Ukraine’s biggest private energy supplier. Since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, the company’s assets have come under attack nearly 180 times, injuring 51 workers and killing three.
* Ukrainian air defenses downed 39 of the missiles and 20 of the drones, according to Ukrainian air force commander Mykola Oleshchuk.
* The damage includes damaged homes, the country’s rail network, and the Trypilska power plant, one of Ukraine’s biggest.
Zelenskyy’s Warning
Zelenskyy noted that Wednesday’s attacks occurred on the day that Ukraine observes the end of European fighting in World War II and equated Ukraine’s current struggle with that conflict. He emphasized the importance of international unity and the need for Ukraine to receive Western military support to stop Russian President Vladimir Putin’s aggression.
Conclusion
The attack on Ukraine’s power grid highlights the ongoing struggle of Ukraine’s citizens and the country’s efforts to protect itself against Russian aggression. It is essential for the international community to provide Ukraine with the necessary support and condemn Russian actions to prevent further destabilization of the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the impact of the attack on Ukraine’s power grid?
A: The attack damaged homes, the country’s rail network, and several power plants, resulting in the injury of three people, including an 8-year-old girl.
Q: Why did Russia launch the attack on Ukraine’s power grid?
A: Russia’s aim was to disrupt Ukraine’s energy supply and weaken its military capabilities, as well as crush public morale.
Q: Has Russia launched similar attacks on Ukraine in the past?
A: Yes, Russia has repeatedly targeted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure since the beginning of its full-scale invasion in February 2022, causing significant damage and harm to Ukraine’s citizens.