In a significant escalation of hostilities, Russian forces unleashed an extensive barrage of over 200 drones and missiles aimed at critical energy and power infrastructure across Ukraine on Sunday.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy detailed that this onslaught comprised at least 120 missiles and 90 drones, with a notable mention of Iranian-made Shahed drones playing a key role. Ukrainian officials characterized this as the most substantial long-range Russian attack recorded in the past three months.
“The enemy’s primary objective was to disable our energy infrastructure throughout Ukraine. Sadly, there has been substantial damage to various facilities due to both direct hits and debris falling from the sky. In Mykolaiv, a drone attack tragically resulted in the deaths of two individuals, while six others sustained injuries, including two children,” Zelenskyy lamented.
Zelenskyy also noted the resilience of Ukrainian air defenses, announcing that forces successfully intercepted and shot down 144 incoming projectiles before they could inflict damage on their intended targets.
TRUMP TEAM REACTS TO REPORT PRESIDENT-ELECT TOLD RUSSIA’S PUTIN NOT TO ESCALATE WAR WITH UKRAINE
Reports indicate that Russian forces launched a massive assault over the weekend, unleashing more than 200 drones and missiles across Ukrainian territory, as confirmed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. (Christoph Soeder, Pool Photo via AP)
Explosions reverberated across major Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv, Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, Kryvyi Rih, Dnipro, and regions in western Ukraine. Odesa, known for its strategic port facilities, was reportedly plunged into darkness due to power outages caused by the strikes.
In response to the attack, Poland’s military swiftly scrambled its air force within its own borders, although there were no immediate reports indicating that Russian ordinance had landed on Polish soil.
DOCUMENTS REVEAL RUSSIA’S INITIAL ‘PEACE DEAL’ EQUATED TO THE SURRENDER OF UKRAINE: REPORT
A training session involving around 2,000 Ukrainian conscripts and veterans is currently underway in the muddy fields of the Champagne military camp located in eastern France, taking place as recently as November 14, 2024. (REUTERS/John Irish)
The timing of this latest attack coincides with President-elect Donald Trump’s anticipated appointment of a Ukrainian peace envoy tasked with spearheading negotiations aimed at ceasing hostilities with Russia.
TRUMP’S FIRST CABINET PICKS DECIDEDLY NOT ISOLATIONISTS: UKRAINE, ISRAEL BREATHE A SIGH OF RELIEF
Notably, this peace envoy role is expected to be unpaid; Kurt Volker previously performed similar duties from 2017 to 2019 as special representative without a salary.
Amidst a rapid pace of announcements regarding his Cabinet appointments, Trump is making swift moves to align advisers on pressing issues, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
President-elect Donald Trump is set to appoint a peace envoy focused on the negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)
Trump has long claimed a unique ability to broker peace and end the war, envisioning a resolution that involves both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin at the negotiating table. Nonetheless, the specifics of his proposed strategy remain largely undisclosed.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
Sources close to Trump suggest there are calls for him to encourage Kyiv to accept terms whereby frontlines would be frozen through the establishment of an 800-mile-long demilitarized zone, effectively allowing Russia to retain control over approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory that it has illegally annexed.
Additionally, it has been proposed that Kyiv consider agreeing to a 20-year moratorium on NATO membership, a suggestion that critics argue would unduly appease Putin and undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Anders Hagstrom is a reporter with Fox News Digital, specializing in national politics and significant breaking news events. For tips, reach out to [email protected] or follow him on Twitter: @Hagstrom_Anders.
What are the implications of Russia’s recent drone and missile attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure for the upcoming winter?
**Interview with Michael Allen, Foreign Affairs Analyst**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us, Michael. We just witnessed a significant escalation in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with over 200 drones and missiles launched at various targets in Ukraine. What do you make of this latest attack?
**Michael Allen:** Thank you for having me. This latest assault marks a troubling escalation in Russia’s military objectives against Ukraine, particularly targeting critical energy infrastructure. As President Zelenskyy noted, this seems to be the most extensive long-range strike we’ve seen in recent months, demonstrating Russia’s intent to inflict maximum disruption, especially as winter approaches.
**Editor:** It appears that at least two people lost their lives during these attacks, and cities across Ukraine experienced explosions. How do these kinds of strikes affect civilian morale and the overall war effort?
**Michael Allen:** Civilian casualties and infrastructure damage have profound psychological and emotional effects on the populace. While the Ukrainian government has stressed the resilience of their air defenses, each tragic loss weighs heavily on public sentiment. However, it’s also worth noting that such attacks can galvanize resistance and unity among the Ukrainian people, reinforcing their commitment to defend their sovereignty.
**Editor:** President Zelenskyy mentioned the effective interception of 144 incoming projectiles by Ukrainian air defenses. Given that, do you think Ukraine is adequately prepared to handle these types of attacks moving forward?
**Michael Allen:** The ability to intercept such a high number of missiles and drones is commendable, showcasing considerable advancements in their air defense capabilities. However, maintaining and improving this level of defense is crucial as attacks are likely to continue. Continuous support, both material and strategic, from allied nations will play a key role in bolstering Ukraine’s defensive measures.
**Editor:** Recently, we’re hearing about a potential Ukrainian peace envoy as part of Donald Trump’s incoming administration. How might this influence the current conflict, considering Russia’s latest aggression?
**Michael Allen:** The appointment of a peace envoy could indicate a potential shift in diplomatic strategy, especially if it aims to initiate dialogue. However, given the nature of Russia’s recent attacks, it may also be a tactic to leverage negotiations while simultaneously applying military pressure. The situation is complex, and peace talks hinge on a recognition of Ukraine’s sovereignty and the genuine willingness of Russia to de-escalate.
**Editor:** Thank you, Michael, for your insights on this developing situation. Your perspective is invaluable as we continue to observe the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
**Michael Allen:** Thank you for having me; it’s crucial we keep the dialogue going on this pressing issue.