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The strikes have caused power outages for more than a million people.
Russia has launched a series of strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, exacerbating the power crisis across the country – the 11th attack since March 2024 according to officials.
The offensive – the second in November 2024 – has left more than a million people without power, Reuters has reported.
The strikes have significantly damaged Ukraine’s energy system.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has condemned Russia’s actions as a “despicable escalation,” highlighting the use of Cruise missiles with cluster munitions.
The Ukrainian Air Force reported that Russia deployed 91 missiles and 97 drones, with 12 hitting their intended targets, primarily energy and fuel facilities.
The attacks have raised concerns over prolonged power outages during the winter, as temperatures reach zero degrees.
All nuclear power units had been disconnected from the grid as a precaution before the attacks.
Ukrenergo, Ukraine’s state grid operator, has announced deep power cuts nationwide due to the damage inflicted by the strikes.
Officials across Ukraine are now relying on generators to provide emergency heat and water to critical facilities such as hospitals and schools during the harsh winter conditions.
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) director general Rafael Grossi stated: “Ukraine’s energy infrastructure is extremely fragile and vulnerable, putting nuclear safety at great risk.
“Once again, I call for maximum military restraint in areas with major nuclear energy facilities and other sites on which they depend.
“The IAEA will continue to assess the extent of damage to facilities and power lines that are essential for nuclear safety and security. The IAEA will continue to do everything in its power to reduce the risk of a nuclear incident during this tragic war.” |