– Russia targeted Ukraine’s energy grid with drone strikes
– Power outages occurred in Odesa and Mykolaiv
– Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence is focused on protecting energy facilities from future attacks
Russia has launched drone strikes targeting Ukraine’s energy grid, causing power outages in regions like Odesa and Mykolaiv. DTEK, Ukraine’s top energy provider, warned of disruptions to electric transport in Odesa. Air raid signals were also reported in several cities. Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence stated that air defenses destroyed most of the drones launched by Russia, which is intentionally targeting Ukraine’s energy system. Falling debris from Iranian-made drones caused a fire at high-voltage power facilities in Mykolaiv. Outages over the past week have been severe, with cities experiencing limited supplies of electricity and water. Ukraine is prioritizing the protection of energy facilities, implementing measures to defend against drone and missile attacks.
Following Russia’s invasion, EU and Ukraine linked their electricity grids to provide emergency power in case of Russian attacks. Russia’s targeted attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure have caused extensive damage, raising concerns over reconstruction costs. Russia’s recent escalation in drone strikes follows a terrorist attack in Moscow, which Putin linked to Ukraine. Wilson Jones, a defense analyst, explains that targeting electrical grids in war situations hinders military operations but also impacts civilians. Russia has faced criticism from Amnesty International for its unlawful targeting of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Ukraine’s military is strengthening aerial defense around energy facilities to brace for future drone attacks.