Russia launched a series of missile and drone attacks on critical energy infrastructure across Ukraine, Ukrainian officials reported on Wednesday, intensifying pressure on the country’s power grid as winter lingers. The latest strikes come as President Volodymyr Zelensky prepares for high-level discussions in Washington, where he seeks stronger U.S. support amid escalating hostilities.
According to Ukraine’s Energy Ministry, multiple power stations and transmission facilities were hit in overnight strikes, causing blackouts in several regions, including Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Dnipro. Emergency crews are working to restore power, but officials warn that continued attacks could severely undermine Ukraine’s ability to provide electricity to civilians and industry.
“This is a deliberate attempt by Russia to weaken our resilience and push Ukraine into an energy crisis,” said Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko. He added that the country’s air defense systems managed to intercept a number of incoming missiles and drones, preventing even greater damage.
Russia has not publicly commented on the strikes, but in previous statements, Moscow has defended targeting Ukraine’s infrastructure, arguing that it disrupts the country’s military logistics. However, international observers and human rights organizations have condemned such attacks as violations of humanitarian law, given their impact on civilians.
The latest escalation comes at a critical time for Zelensky, who is set to engage in talks with U.S. officials, including President Joe Biden, in an effort to secure additional military and economic assistance. With a new aid package facing political hurdles in Congress, Zelensky hopes to underscore Ukraine’s urgent need for air defense systems and financial aid to sustain its war effort against Russian forces.
“We expect meaningful discussions that will strengthen Ukraine’s position on the battlefield and help our people endure these challenging times,” Zelensky said ahead of his visit.
The U.S. has been Ukraine’s largest military backer since the start of the war in 2022, but growing concerns over budget constraints and shifting geopolitical priorities have made continued aid a contentious issue in Washington. Analysts say Zelensky’s visit could be pivotal in determining the extent of future American support.
As tensions rise, NATO and European leaders have also called for increased assistance to Ukraine, warning that any reduction in aid could embolden Russia and prolong the conflict. Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials brace for further Russian strikes, urging civilians to remain vigilant and conserve energy as power shortages persist.
The coming days will be crucial in shaping Ukraine’s next steps, both on the battlefield and in diplomatic engagements with its Western allies.