Russia Launches Record Ballistic Missile Attacks on Ukraine’s Energy Infrastructure
Russia has used a record number of ballistic missiles to target Ukraine’s energy sector, President Volodymyr Zelensky has said. The combined missile and drone strikes hit power plants and infrastructure in Kyiv and multiple locations, causing “the most powerful blow” so far this year, according to private energy company DTEK.
Impact of the Strikes in Kyiv and Kharkiv
The strikes were launched as temperatures dropped to -20C (-4F) and left more than 1,000 tower blocks in the capital without heating once again. A power plant in the eastern city of Kharkiv was damaged beyond repair. Zelensky said Russia was “choosing terror and escalation” rather than diplomacy to end this war and called for “maximum pressure” on Moscow from Ukraine’s allies.
Energy Truce Expires Amid Escalating Conflict
The attack comes after a so-called “energy truce” agreed by Donald Trump with Vladimir Putin expired at the weekend. Ukraine’s president suggested that Russia had simply used the time to stock up on missiles and prepare for the next attack. It also came on the day NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte was in Kyiv to meet President Zelensky and address the national parliament.
“Donald Trump’s initiative was meant to give diplomacy a chance. Negotiators from Russia and Ukraine are due to meet in Abu Dhabi for another round of talks co-ordinated by the US later this week.”
Residents Shelter in Kyiv as Attacks Continue
We heard the first explosions in Kyiv soon after midnight and the air raid lasted more than seven hours. There were several subsequent blasts. Residents spent the night sheltering in metro stations, with some pitching tents on the platforms to protect them from the freezing cold.
Missile Numbers and Interception Efforts
President Zelensky has said more than 70 ballistic and cruise missiles were fired—significantly more than usual—together with 450 drones used to overwhelm Ukraine’s air defences. Ukraine’s Air Force said it had intercepted only 38 of the missiles, which means many reached their target.
Missile Shortages and NATO’s Response
Officials here have complained repeatedly of a shortage of missiles to protect the skies. Ukraine relies on US-made Patriot missiles, in particular. “Timely delivery of missiles for air defense systems and the protection of normal life are our priority,” Zelensky wrote on X this morning. “Without pressure on Russia, there will be no end to this war.”
“I know that more is urgently needed,” said NATO’s secretary-general. “We are working to ensure that more comes quickly.”
NATO Secretary-General Supports Ukraine’s Defense
Rutte also said NATO was standing by Ukraine as it made tough decisions during peace talks and that the alliance would provide the “hard power” to back up any eventual deal. But the NATO chief agreed with Zelensky that Russia’s overnight attack did not “signal seriousness about peace.”
“Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Moscow of using the coldest days of winter.”
