Russia Strikes Ukraine’s Power Grid Before U.S. Peace Talks/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Russia launched a large-scale missile and drone assault on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure overnight, injuring at least 10 people and intensifying pressure on the nation’s power grid. The attack, which Ukrainian officials called an attempt to “weaponize winter,” came hours after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced upcoming talks with U.S. officials. Ukraine’s air force intercepted dozens of Russian missiles and drones, deploying French Mirage-2000 fighter jets for the first time. The Kremlin defended the strikes as legitimate military actions. Meanwhile, uncertainty over continued U.S. military aid looms as Trump presses Zelenskyy toward negotiations.
Russia’s Energy Attacks on Ukraine: Quick Look
- Massive Attack: Russia launched 67 missiles and 194 drones, hitting power and gas infrastructure.
- Casualties: At least 10 civilians injured, including a child.
- Kremlin Justification: Moscow claims energy facilities are tied to Ukraine’s military.
- Ukraine’s Defense: Air force downed 34 missiles and 100 drones; new French Mirage-2000 jets used.
- U.S. Relations: Zelenskyy set for U.S. talks in Saudi Arabia amid Trump’s aid freeze.
- Energy Crisis: Repeated attacks deplete Ukraine’s power capacity, worsening winter hardships.
Russia Strikes Ukraine’s Power Grid Before U.S. Peace Talks
Russia’s Intensified Strikes: A Deep Look
Russia escalated its air campaign against Ukraine overnight, unleashing a relentless barrage of missiles and drones targeting the country’s power infrastructure. The large-scale assault, which left at least 10 people injured, comes at a critical moment—just days before Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to meet with U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia to discuss potential peace talks and military aid.
Energy Infrastructure Under Siege
Ukraine’s Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko described the attack as “massive,” emphasizing Russia’s intent to leave civilians without light and heat during the harsh winter. Strikes on gas extraction facilities and power plants have significantly drained Ukraine’s energy reserves, further threatening the nation’s ability to sustain itself amid ongoing Russian offensives.
Ukraine’s largest private gas producer, DTEK, reported that this was the sixth attack in two and a half weeks on its facilities. Halushchenko condemned Russia’s actions, stating,
“Russia is trying to inflict the greatest harm on ordinary citizens.”
Ukraine’s Air Defenses Respond
Ukraine’s air force engaged in an extensive defense operation, successfully intercepting 34 of 67 missiles and 100 of 194 drones launched by Russia. Notably, French Mirage-2000 fighter jets were deployed for the first time, enhancing Ukraine’s air defense capabilities. The country also relied on Western-supplied F-16 jets and advanced electronic warfare systems to jam enemy drones.
While Ukraine’s air defenses managed to neutralize a significant portion of the attack, the bombardment still caused considerable damage, underscoring Kyiv’s vulnerability to sustained Russian offensives.
Kremlin Defends Strikes as “Legitimate”
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov justified the attacks, stating that Ukraine’s energy infrastructure is a legitimate target because of its links to military operations and weapons production. Moscow’s strategy of targeting power facilities has drawn widespread condemnation, with Ukrainian officials accusing Russia of using energy deprivation as a weapon to break civilian morale.
U.S. Talks & Uncertain Military Aid
The attack occurred just hours after Zelenskyy confirmed that his administration will hold discussions with U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia next week. The talks come at a critical juncture, as President Donald Trump has paused military aid to Ukraine, using it as leverage to push Kyiv toward negotiations with Moscow.
Zelenskyy will first meet with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman before his delegation engages with U.S. representatives, including National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The discussions will likely center on Ukraine’s battlefield needs and potential conditions for a ceasefire.
Ukraine Seeks European Military Support
With uncertainty surrounding continued American support, Zelenskyy welcomed the European Union’s new defense spending plan, expressing hope that part of the funds could be directed toward bolstering Ukraine’s military production.
As the war enters its third year, Ukraine remains locked in a struggle for survival. With its energy infrastructure under relentless attack and U.S. support in question, Kyiv’s next moves could shape the future of the conflict.
