Ukraine Battered by Russian Airstrikes, Leaving Millions Without Power
Millions Plunged Into Darkness as Russia Targets Ukrainian Power Grid
A massive Russian missile barrage struck Ukraine on Thursday, plunging over a million people into darkness as Moscow retaliated for what it said were long-range Western-made missiles launched against Russian territory. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attacks as “another particularly evil escalation in Russian terrorist tactics,” highlighting the use of cluster munitions that showered civilian infrastructure, hindering rescue efforts.
Ukraine’s power grid, already reeling from previous Russian assaults, suffered heavy damage, despite the country’s success in shooting down 79 missiles and drones out of more than 100. Regional authorities reported blackouts across the country, with the western regions of Lviv, Volhynia, and Rivne bearing the brunt of the onslaught, leaving millions without electricity. The attack coincided with Ukraine’s ongoing implementation of hourly energy rationing, adding to the hardship faced by Ukrainians during the winter months.
The Kremlin has justified these attacks as a direct response to Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory using Western weaponry.
“Of course, we will respond to attacks carried out against Russian territory with long-range Western-made missiles,” Russian President Vladimir Putin declared from Astana, Kazakhstan, where he participated in a summit of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO).
Putin proclaimed Russia’s readiness to deploy its newly tested hypersonic ballistic missile, the Oreshnik, against Ukraine, mentioning military installations, defense industry sites, and decision-making centers in Kyiv as potential targets.
Into the Shadow of Nuclear Threats
Putin reiterated his position on peace negotiations, stating that the development of the Oreshnik ballistic missile hadn’t altered his stance. Russia demands the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from annexed territories,
Ukraine’sENERGO safety, which ensures non-aligned status, and Ukraine’s “denazification” and demilitarization.
The Russian leader asserted that these demands remain unchanged.
In retaliation, Putin is now delivering messages that bear troubling consequence
Putin confirmed Russia’s readiness to strike Ukraine with the Oreshnik missile,
We stand strong against even the most powerful adversaries. We stand together, and we remain committed to defeating those who
stated, “Our fundamental attitude towards the solution of the Ukraine does not change.”
These claims followed the latest radar scan – revealing the responsiveness against Russian territory
How has Oleksandr described the impact of the airstrikes on the morale and resilience of the Ukrainian people?
## Interview with Oleksandr, Kyiv Resident
**(Host)** Oleksandr, you’re joining us from Kyiv. Can you tell us what you’ve experienced in the wake of these latest Russian airstrikes?
**(Oleksandr)** It’s been a very difficult day. The sirens started early this morning, and it wasn’t long before we heard the explosions. The power went out immediately, plunging most of the city into darkness. We’re relying on candles and flashlights now.
**(Host)** You said “most of the city”. Are there some areas still with power?
**(Oleksandr)** I’ve heard that some hospitals and essential services are still running on generators, but for most of us, it’s pitch black. The worst part is the uncertainty. We don’t know how long this will last, or when the power will be restored.
**(Host)** President Zelensky has condemned these attacks as a “particularly evil escalation”. What does this latest attack tell you about the direction of the war?
**(Oleksandr)** It’s clear that Russia is increasingly targeting civilian infrastructure. They’re trying to break our spirit by plunging us into darkness and cold. But I think they underestimate the Ukrainian people. We are strong and resilient, and we won’t be intimidated.
**(Host)** Your words are powerful, Oleksandr. Thank you for speaking to us during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with you and all Ukrainians.
**(Oleksandr)** Thank you.
**Please Note:** This interview is based on the provided information and does not reflect any specific real-world individual named Oleksandr.
