Russian Air Attack Kills Civilians and Leaves Much of Ukraine Without Power

Post by : Saif Nasser

Ukraine faced one of its most severe air attacks in recent weeks on Tuesday after Russia launched a large wave of missiles and drones across the country, killing at least three civilians and knocking out power in most regions. The strikes came just days after U.S.-led peace talks and only hours before many Ukrainians were preparing for Christmas celebrations.

Ukrainian officials said the attack involved more than 30 missiles and around 650 drones, hitting at least 13 regions. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy described the timing of the strikes as cruel, saying people only wanted to be safe at home with their families during the holiday season. He said the attack clearly showed Russia’s priorities.

The heaviest damage was reported in western parts of Ukraine, where energy facilities were hit. Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko said the strikes caused serious disruption to the country’s power system. Ukraine’s grid operator later confirmed that emergency power cuts were introduced in most regions to prevent further damage and stabilize the system.

In the central Zhytomyr region, two people were killed, including a four-year-old child. Another person was killed near the capital, Kyiv. Local officials said at least five people were wounded in and around Kyiv as debris from drones and missiles damaged homes and buildings. Images from the capital showed apartment blocks with shattered windows and burned walls.

Critical infrastructure was also damaged in the northern Chernihiv region, the western city of Lviv, and the southern port city of Odesa. Local authorities warned residents to prepare for extended power outages as repair teams worked under dangerous conditions.

The attack raised concern beyond Ukraine’s borders. Poland, a NATO member that borders western Ukraine, said it scrambled Polish and allied aircraft to protect its airspace after Russian strikes landed close to the border. Such actions highlight the wider regional risks linked to the war.

The latest strikes came shortly after peace talks held in Miami, where U.S. officials met with Ukrainian and European representatives and held separate contacts with Russia. Despite these discussions, Moscow has increased pressure on Ukraine by targeting energy and transport systems, especially as winter deepens.

Russia has said it will not stop fighting unless Ukraine agrees to major concessions, including giving up parts of eastern Ukraine and limiting its military strength. Ukraine has rejected these demands, saying they threaten its independence and security.

As the war approaches its fourth year, attacks on civilian areas and infrastructure continue to cause suffering for ordinary people. With winter temperatures dropping and power supplies damaged, many Ukrainians now face the holidays without heat, light, or a sense of safety.