Russia has carried out a major overnight assault on Ukraine, launching hundreds of drones and missiles targeting energy facilities and civilian infrastructure across several regions, Ukrainian officials reported.
A Large-Scale Assault on Civilians and Infrastructure
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that over 450 drones and 45 missiles of various types were fired by Russia, describing the strikes as a direct attack on normal life, residential buildings, and the energy grid.
“Every attack Moscow carries out on our energy system is an attempt to harm ordinary people before winter. There must be a global response — tougher sanctions on the entire Russian energy sector, without exception,” Zelensky said on Telegram, urging the international community to increase pressure on the Kremlin.
Widespread Power Outages and Damage
The Ukrenergo energy operator confirmed emergency blackouts in the Poltava region, with Kremenchuk experiencing a complete power outage. Local authorities opened temporary public centers offering heating, electricity, internet access, and basic aid.
In Kharkiv, the metro system was suspended, while electricity and water supplies were disrupted. Electric transport was replaced by buses, and emergency centers were opened to help residents stay warm. Railway operations in the Poltava region were also heavily affected.
Civilian Casualties
A Russian drone strike hit a nine-story residential building, destroying two floors and killing at least two people. Emergency crews are still searching for survivors under the debris.
Zelensky Calls for Stronger Western Action
Zelensky renewed his call for the European Union to make a binding decision on frozen Russian assets, enforce additional sanctions, and strengthen Ukraine’s defense systems.
Kyiv has also requested that the United States supply Tomahawk long-range missiles to enable Ukraine to strike deep inside Russian territory, as Moscow intensifies its air attacks. However, U.S. President Donald Trump has signaled reluctance to approve such deliveries.
Moscow’s Warning and Escalation Risks
The Kremlin, through President Vladimir Putin, warned Washington that sending Tomahawks would mark a “completely new phase of escalation” in U.S.–Russia relations.
As the war enters its fourth year, Ukraine insists that access to such weapons would allow it to cripple Russia’s war effort by hitting oil and energy facilities far from the front lines. Meanwhile, Ukraine has already carried out drone strikes deep inside Russian energy infrastructure, signaling a shift in its defense strategy.
