In brief
In a devastating escalation of violence, Ukraine has been hit by a record number of ballistic missiles from Russia, targeting its energy infrastructure at a time when temperatures have dropped to -20C. Over a thousand tower blocks in Kyiv are without heating, and the ongoing attacks have prompted President Zelensky to call for increased pressure on Moscow from allies. As residents suffer in the freezing conditions, Ukraine's air defenses struggle to keep up with the relentless assaults, raising concerns about the humanitarian impact and the potential for further escalation.
Russia has unleashed a record number of ballistic missiles targeting Ukraine's energy sector, with President Volodymyr Zelensky reporting that the latest attacks are among the most severe this year. The simultaneous missile and drone strikes have devastated power plants and infrastructure across Kyiv and other regions, coinciding with frigid temperatures that have plummeted to -20C (-4F). As a result, more than 1,000 tower blocks in the capital are without heating, leaving residents to endure the bitter cold. Zelensky criticized Russia's tactics as 'choosing terror and escalation' rather than seeking a diplomatic solution, urging allies to exert maximum pressure on Moscow. The assault, which has been described as the 'most powerful blow' to date, has severely impacted the functioning of critical energy facilities. While Ukraine's Air Force managed to intercept 38 missiles, many more penetrated defenses, leading to substantial damage, including a power plant in Kharkiv that is now beyond repair. As engineers work tirelessly to restore services, the situation remains dire, with citizens increasingly reliant on soup kitchens for hot meals amidst prolonged power outages. This escalation follows the expiry of an 'energy truce' negotiated between former US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, and casts doubt on the sincerity of peace negotiations set to take place later this week in Abu Dhabi. The conflict shows no signs of abating as both military and civilian casualties continue to rise, underscoring the severe humanitarian crisis facing Ukraine.
