Ukraine’s Energy Minister, Herman Halushchenko, has confirmed that Russia has launched a massive assault on the country’s energy infrastructure, triggering widespread blackouts and air raid alerts across multiple regions.
Explosions were reported in several cities on Thursday morning, following nationwide air raid warnings issued by Ukraine’s air force, which highlighted the threat of incoming missiles, rockets, and drones. Halushchenko stated on Facebook that energy facilities throughout Ukraine were under attack, forcing emergency power outages.
The wave of strikes has significantly impacted about half of Ukraine’s regions, with authorities revealing that Russia has conducted approximately 1,500 air strikes in recent days. Among the affected areas are Kyiv, Rivne, Vinnytsia, Kropyvnytskyi, Balta, and Mykolaiv.
In Kharkiv, Mayor Igor Terekhov reported shelling in a civilian area, causing further distress to the already embattled city. Lutsk’s mayor, Ihor Polishchuk, noted multiple explosions that led to power outages in parts of the city. Meanwhile, the critical port city of Odesa also came under attack, with regional governor Oleg Kiper urging residents to remain in safe locations.
Local media outlet Zerkalo Tyzhnya detailed reports of explosions in Odesa, emphasizing the scale and coordination of the strikes. These developments come amid heightened tensions and renewed assaults by Russia, which appear aimed at crippling Ukraine’s energy systems as winter approaches.
Ukraine’s resilience is being tested as the nation grapples with the latest escalation in the ongoing conflict. Authorities have called for vigilance, urging citizens to follow safety protocols as the situation evolves.