Ukraine Enforces Energy Restrictions Amid Major Russian Attack
Nationwide measures follow extensive damages as Ukraine braces for winter hardship
Ukraine announced nationwide emergency power restrictions after a significant missile assault by Russia, targeting key regions including Kyiv and causing critical damage to the energy grid.
The attack, one of the largest in the near three-year conflict, also led to nine civilian fatalities across multiple regions, including Mykolaiv, Lviv, Kherson, and Odesa.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported the use of 120 missiles and nearly 100 drones by Russia.
The country's grid operator Ukrenergo confirmed emergency measures starting Monday due to severe infrastructure damage.
The assault happened amidst concerns over potential shifts in U.S. support and increased Russian advances in eastern Ukraine.
The Ukrainian air force claimed downing 144 targets overnight.
This attack followed German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's conversation with Vladimir Putin, which drew criticism from Ukrainian officials who viewed the strikes as Russia's response to diplomatic engagements.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized the necessity of substantial Western support for Ukraine.
Extensive power outages were reported nation-wide, exacerbating Ukraine's struggle against energy shortages as winter approaches.
Civilian deaths were confirmed across the country, with incidents in Kherson, Mykolaiv, Dnipropetrovsk, and Odesa regions.
Meanwhile, in Russia's Kursk region, a local journalist was killed in a Ukrainian drone strike.
The attack also prompted NATO member Poland to heighten military alert levels, considering the threat to its own territory.