Russian attacks left Ukraine's southeastern regions of Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhzhia almost entirely without power, the country's energy ministry reported. Critical infrastructure was operating on reserve power, leading to disruptions in water supplies and internet access as well.
The recent escalation in attacks aims to cripple Ukraine's energy infrastructure amid the severe winter conditions.
Ukraine's Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko commented on the situation, stating, Ukraine's energy system is under enemy attacks every day, and energy workers are operating in extremely difficult conditions to provide people with light and heat. She also noted that the worsening weather further stressed the infrastructure.
The attacks prompted the launch of emergency restoration efforts, pending security conditions. The Mayor of Dnipro announced that all hospitals were switched to generator power as the city faced the challenging circumstances.
Meanwhile, temperatures plummet, forcing school holidays to extend until January 9 due to ongoing power issues. Zaporizhzhia's regional head assured that every effort was being made to restore power, even with full regional blackout conditions.
As winter looms, DTEK, Ukraine's largest private energy provider, expressed that the constant assaults have pushed the company to operate in a state of crisis without enough recovery time. Maxim Timchenko, CEO, noted that subsequent attacks have made it increasingly difficult to maintain services for millions of Ukrainians.
As the conflict continues, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for stronger commitments from European allies to ensure national security against further Russian aggression. Recent talks between the UK and France have indicated potential military support if a peace deal is reached, emphasizing the ongoing volatility in the region.
