NEW DELHI: Russia launched a combined assault overnight, firing approximately 100 missiles and drones at various energy sites across Ukraine, Kyiv officials reported on Saturday.
This relentless barrage aimed at energy infrastructure has been a recurring tactic throughout the two-year conflict, causing substantial damage and energy shortages as Ukraine’s air defenses struggle to fend off the onslaught of drones and missiles.
“The enemy launched 53 missiles of various types and 47 attack drones,” the air force said adding that they managed to intercept 35 of the missiles and all but one of the drones.
Two thermal power plants sustained damage in the attack, as confirmed by the DTEK operator, although specific locations were not disclosed.
Describing the assault as “extremely difficult night,” the company, in a Telegram post, said, “It was another extremely difficult night for the Ukrainian energy sector. The enemy struck two of our thermal power plants. The equipment was seriously damaged.” This incident marked the sixth major attack on DTEK thermal power plants since mid-March.
Ukraine’s Energy Minister, German Galushchenko, revealed that Russia targeted sites in five regions: Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk, Kirovograd, Ivano-Frankivsk, and Zaporizhzhia, spanning from the eastern frontlines to Ukraine’s western border with the EU.
Consequently, the ministry warned of potential power restrictions on Saturday evening due to the attacks.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned Moscow’s actions, accusing Russia of exploiting the lack of sufficient air defense systems and determination among Ukraine’s key Western allies. He reiterated his plea for increased support in acquiring air defense systems, emphasizing the importance of unity and resolve in confronting such aggression. Zelenskyy stressed that the world faces a crucial test of humanity and determination, warning of dire consequences if the free world fails to stand together against such destabilizing actions.
(With inputs from agency)
This relentless barrage aimed at energy infrastructure has been a recurring tactic throughout the two-year conflict, causing substantial damage and energy shortages as Ukraine’s air defenses struggle to fend off the onslaught of drones and missiles.
“The enemy launched 53 missiles of various types and 47 attack drones,” the air force said adding that they managed to intercept 35 of the missiles and all but one of the drones.
Two thermal power plants sustained damage in the attack, as confirmed by the DTEK operator, although specific locations were not disclosed.
Describing the assault as “extremely difficult night,” the company, in a Telegram post, said, “It was another extremely difficult night for the Ukrainian energy sector. The enemy struck two of our thermal power plants. The equipment was seriously damaged.” This incident marked the sixth major attack on DTEK thermal power plants since mid-March.
Ukraine’s Energy Minister, German Galushchenko, revealed that Russia targeted sites in five regions: Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk, Kirovograd, Ivano-Frankivsk, and Zaporizhzhia, spanning from the eastern frontlines to Ukraine’s western border with the EU.
Consequently, the ministry warned of potential power restrictions on Saturday evening due to the attacks.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned Moscow’s actions, accusing Russia of exploiting the lack of sufficient air defense systems and determination among Ukraine’s key Western allies. He reiterated his plea for increased support in acquiring air defense systems, emphasizing the importance of unity and resolve in confronting such aggression. Zelenskyy stressed that the world faces a crucial test of humanity and determination, warning of dire consequences if the free world fails to stand together against such destabilizing actions.
(With inputs from agency)
