Image Credits: CNBC
In a nighttime assault, Russian drones struck Ukrainian energy infrastructure in the northern regions of Chernihiv and Zhytomyr, causing significant disruptions to electricity supplies, according to Ukrenergo, the national power grid operator. The strikes occurred overnight and have led to widespread power outages across the affected areas.
Ukrenergo confirmed the attacks early Friday morning, detailing that the targeted facilities had suffered damage, which initially led to severe interruptions in electricity distribution. “We are actively working to restore power to all affected areas,” said a spokesperson for Ukrenergo.
The drone strikes represent a continuation of Russia’s strategy to undermine Ukraine’s critical infrastructure amidst ongoing hostilities. The targeted regions, Chernihiv and Zhytomyr, have experienced escalating tensions and attacks in recent weeks, highlighting the intensifying nature of the conflict.
Local officials reported that emergency services have been mobilized to address the immediate needs of residents affected by the outages. “We are coordinating with national authorities to ensure that emergency services and essential facilities are prioritized,” said Yulia Timoshenko, the mayor of Zhytomyr. “Our teams are working around the clock to restore power and minimize the impact on our community.”
The Ukrainian government has condemned the drone strikes, describing them as a deliberate attempt to destabilize and pressure Ukraine. Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba stated these attacks as a clear indication of the lengths to which Russia is willing to go to inflict suffering on the citizens of Ukraine.
As efforts to restore power continue, the strikes have sparked renewed calls for international support and solidarity. The European Union and other Western allies have condemned the attacks and pledged continued assistance to Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression.