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Russian Strikes Leave Ukraine’s Power Grid in Ruins Ahead of Winter
Russian forces have intensified attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, crippling the country’s power grid just as winter nears. Centrenergo, Ukraine’s state-owned energy firm, confirmed on Tuesday that all its thermal power plants—Zmiivska, Trypilska, and Burshtynska—are either destroyed or severely damaged. Millions face blackouts, raising fears of a deepening humanitarian crisis.
Unprecedented Attacks on Energy Facilities
Over the past 48 hours, Russian missiles and drones have targeted key power stations across Ukraine, including in Kharkiv, Donetsk, and Zaporizhzhia. Centrenergo’s plants alone contributed a significant portion of Ukraine’s electricity supply. Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko called the strikes “the largest assault on our energy sector since the war began,” warning repairs could take years.
Winter Crisis Looms as Grid Collapses
Last year, Russian strikes caused mass blackouts, leaving civilians without heating in freezing conditions. This year’s attacks threaten even worse disruptions. Kyiv has imposed emergency power rationing, prioritizing hospitals, schools, and water systems—but outages are expected to worsen. President Zelenskyy accused Russia of “targeting civilians” to break morale, vowing resilience.
Global Outrage and Urgent Aid Efforts
NATO, the U.S., and the EU condemned the attacks, pledging air defense support and emergency energy supplies. However, restoring Ukraine’s grid is a race against time—specialized equipment is scarce, and Russia could strike again. Analysts suggest Moscow aims to force concessions by freezing Ukrainian cities.
Ukraine’s Defiance Amid Darkness
Despite the crisis, Ukrainian crews work nonstop to restore power. Local governments are opening “invincibility centers”—heated shelters with electricity—to aid civilians. The country urgently needs advanced air defenses like Patriot missiles to halt further strikes.
What Comes Next?
With winter approaching, Ukraine’s survival hinges on rapid repairs and international aid. Vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly, are at greatest risk. Yet, Kyiv’s message remains firm: Ukraine will not surrender to darkness.
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