Russia has launched its biggest aerial attack on Ukraine in some time, targeting power plants and energy infrastructure in Kyiv and many other locations.
The strikes were launched as temperatures dropped below minus 20C (-4F) overnight and have left more than 1,000 tower blocks in the capital without heating once again and damaged a power plant in the eastern city of Kharkiv beyond repair.
President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia was choosing terror and escalation rather than diplomacy to end this war and called for maximum pressure on Moscow from Ukraine's allies.
The attack comes after a so-called energy truce agreed by Donald Trump with Vladimir Putin expired at the weekend.
It also coincides with the visit of NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte to Kyiv, where he met with President Zelensky and addressed the national parliament.
Donald Trump's initiative was meant to give diplomacy a chance, with negotiators from Russia and Ukraine set to meet in Abu Dhabi for another round of talks later this week. However, it seems that Russia has chosen a different path.
The first explosions in Kyiv were reported soon after midnight, with the air raid lasting over seven hours, and residents were forced to seek shelter in metro stations, some even setting up tents on the platforms due to the freezing cold.
President Zelensky indicated that over 70 ballistic and cruise missiles were fired, alongside 450 drones, overwhelming Ukraine’s air defenses. While Ukraine's Air Force managed to intercept only 38 missiles, many still struck their targets.
Officials have raised ongoing concerns regarding a shortage of missiles for adequate protection, relying heavily on US-made Patriot missiles. Zelensky emphasized the urgency for timely deliveries to ensure air defense and normal life can be maintained.
“Without pressure on Russia, there will be no end to this war,” he stated.
The attack has drawn outrage from civilians, many of whom have been without heating for days or weeks, struggling to survive the cold winter. Soup kitchens have become vital for those facing power cuts and seeking hot meals.
Amidst the destruction of residential buildings and damage to energy infrastructure, there is a prevailing sentiment of defiance among the civilians. Despite Russia's attempts to create misery, many vow to resist submission to Moscow's demands.
As the conflict continues to escalate, the humanitarian toll and the struggle for power remain at the forefront of the narratives surrounding this harrowing chapter in Ukraine's fight for sovereignty.
