Russia launched a massive overnight air attack on Ukraine’s energy system, Kyiv said on Saturday. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy confirmed the use of more than 400 drones and around 40 missiles. The strikes targeted power generation and electricity distribution facilities across the country.
According to Ukrainian officials, the attack damaged critical parts of the national power grid. Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal said two thermal power plants in western regions were hit. Key substations and electricity transmission lines were also damaged. As a result, emergency power cuts were imposed nationwide.
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Zelenskiy said Russia was choosing attacks over diplomacy despite ongoing peace efforts. He warned that Moscow was using winter cold as a weapon against civilians. He urged international partners to respond firmly and support Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia offered no immediate comment on the strikes.
The attacks came as temperatures began to fall sharply across Ukraine. Weather forecasts show temperatures dropping to minus 14 degrees Celsius in coming days. Officials said the damaged energy sector was already weakened by years of war. Consequently, repair teams are waiting for security clearance to begin restoration work.
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Since autumn 2025, Russia has intensified strikes on Ukraine’s power infrastructure. Millions have faced prolonged blackouts due to repeated attacks. Poland briefly suspended flights at two southeastern airports as a precaution. Ukrainian officials also requested emergency electricity imports from Poland to stabilize the grid.