Russia has intensified its assault on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure in a calculated attack, launching a barrage of missiles and drones aimed primarily at critical power plants. This coordinated winter offensive has drawn the attention of NATO, leading to the deployment of fighter jets over Poland as Russian forces fired upon western Ukraine.
The Burshtyn thermal power plant in the Ivano-Frankivsk region was hit particularly hard, suffering significant damage. This facility is essential for energy stability in western Ukraine and serves as a vital connection to the European electrical grid. The attack commenced at approximately 4 a.m., with air raid sirens wailing for hours as Ukrainian monitoring agencies reported that around 12 sea-launched Kalibr cruise missiles targeted the Burshtyn plant, accompanied by waves of attack drones.
The onslaught caused numerous explosions, resulting in substantial concerns for the national grid, with Ukraine’s energy operator, UkrEnergo, announcing emergency blackouts across multiple regions. The attacks create the potential for widespread power outages, threatening millions as freezing temperatures set in.
The nighttime offensive involved the launch of dozens of cruise missiles and as many as 100 drones directed towards western and central Ukraine, strategically overwhelming air defense systems. A maternity ward in Lviv faced terrifying circumstances as newborns were hastily evacuated to underground shelters right after delivery, with social media highlighting the traumatic experience: “All these babies would be sleeping peacefully if it weren’t for the Russians.”
The offensive didn’t stop at the Burshtyn plant. Other facilities targeted included the Dobrotvir plant in Lviv, the Ladyzhyn plant in Vinnytsia, and the Trypilska plant near Kyiv, along with a significant high-voltage substation that supplies electricity to the capital. Emergency blackouts were reported in regions such as Kyiv, Vinnytsia, and Kropyvnytskyi, indicating severe strain on the energy system amid ongoing attacks.
In addition to the power plants, Ukrainian sources also shared footage of a significant fire at a Roshen confectionery facility in the Kyiv region, underscoring the widespread destruction inflicted by this intense offensive. The situation remains dire for many Ukrainians as the war continues to impact their daily lives and basic needs.