Russia launched a massive attack on Ukraine on Christmas Day, firing over 70 missiles and 100 drones at the country’s energy infrastructure. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the assault as “inhuman,” stating that Russia deliberately chose Christmas for the attack.
The strikes targeted multiple cities, including Kharkiv, Dnipro, and Kremenchuk, causing widespread destruction and humanitarian crises. In Kharkiv, nearly half a million people were left without heating or electricity, with temperatures hovering just above zero degrees Celsius.
Ukrainian authorities reported that at least six people were wounded in Kharkiv, while one person was killed in the Dnipropetrovsk region. The Ukrainian military successfully intercepted 59 Russian missiles and 54 drones, minimizing the potential destruction.
International leaders swiftly condemned the attack, with US President Joe Biden denouncing it as “outrageous” and promising to push forward with a new surge of military aid to Ukraine. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also expressed solidarity with Ukraine, praising the courage and leadership of the Ukrainian people.
Russia’s Defense Ministry confirmed the “massive strike” on Ukraine’s energy facilities, claiming that the aim of the strike was achieved and all facilities were hit. However, Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko reported that Russia was massively attacking the power sector, with restrictions on electricity supply in place.
The attack marks the latest escalation in Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine, which has resulted in significant humanitarian suffering and economic damage. As the conflict continues to rage on, international leaders are calling for increased support for Ukraine and condemnation of Russia’s aggressive actions.
