Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned Russia’s recent missile and drone strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, describing it as a “conscious choice” to target the country on Christmas Day. The strikes, which led to widespread power outages, particularly in Kyiv and Kharkiv, came as a significant blow to Ukraine’s already battered energy sector.
What Was the Target of Russia's Energy Infrastructure Attacks?
Ukraine’s air force reported detecting 184 missiles and drones launched by Russia, but many were intercepted or missed their targets. Despite the defensive measures, the attack resulted in casualties, though no specific figures were provided by authorities. Moscow confirmed the attack, with Russian defense officials claiming that all their targets had been hit successfully.
“This was the 13th major attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure this year,” said DTEK, Ukraine’s largest private energy company. The company confirmed that this assault was another step in Russia’s ongoing campaign to cripple Ukraine’s energy sector.
How Did Kyiv React to the Power Cuts and Chaos?
The strike led to severe power cuts across Ukraine, particularly in the capital city of Kyiv. Residents were forced to shelter in metro stations as air raid alarms sounded across the city. “Of course, I want to be at home and celebrate, but we had to shelter because it’s scary to stay at home,” said a Kyiv resident, sharing her fear and anger over the attacks.
Despite the terrifying circumstances, some Ukrainians remained determined to celebrate Christmas. “Christmas is not cancelled,” said another Kyiv resident. “I plan to enjoy traditional Ukrainian food and drink with my family and friends after it’s safe to leave the shelter.”
What Was President Biden's Response to the Russian Attacks?
U.S. President Joe Biden condemned the Russian attacks, calling them an “outrageous” attempt to deny the Ukrainian people access to heat and electricity during the winter months. “The purpose of this attack was to cut off the Ukrainian people’s access to heat and electricity during winter and to jeopardize the safety of its grid,” Biden said. He also urged the U.S. Defense Department to continue supplying military aid to Ukraine.
The U.S. President reiterated his support for Ukraine amidst ongoing Russian aggression. Biden’s comments came in the lead-up to his transition out of office, with Donald Trump set to succeed him on January 20, 2025.
How Did Zelensky Denounce the Inhumane Attacks?
President Zelensky responded to the timing of the strikes, emphasizing that Russia’s actions were a deliberate choice to cause suffering. “This is a conscious choice by Russia to carry out such attacks on Christmas,” Zelensky stated. “These inhumane strikes will not break Ukraine. Russian evil will not distort Christmas.”
The Ukrainian leader acknowledged the efforts underway to restore power to affected regions, but warned that the damage to the energy infrastructure could lead to ongoing power shortages. “Work is being done to restore power as soon as possible,” he added.
Which City Was Hit Hardest by the Strikes?
The northeastern city of Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, was one of the hardest-hit areas. The attack left around half a million people without water, electricity, or heating, with temperatures in the region plummeting to bitterly cold levels. Local authorities described the situation as dire, and the people of Kharkiv were left grappling with severe conditions as a result of the Russian assault.
What Happened During the Power Outages and Air Raid Alerts?
Across Ukraine, people woke up to the blaring sound of air raid alarms as the Russian strikes unfolded. Authorities advised citizens to seek shelter immediately. Ukrenergo, Ukraine’s state-owned power company, warned that power cuts could last until at least the end of the day, as the country worked to restore electricity and implement usage restrictions.
Why Are the Strikes Being Described as "Christmas Terror"?
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha labeled the attacks as “Christmas terror.” He emphasized that the strikes were not only an assault on Ukraine but also a reminder that Russia’s aggression poses a threat to neighboring countries. Sybiha pointed out that one of the Russian missiles passed through Moldovan and Romanian airspace.
Moldovan President Maia Sandu condemned the attack and confirmed that a missile had been detected in Moldovan airspace. Romania, however, stated that it did not detect any missile in its airspace during the attacks.
What Were the Casualties in Russia’s Kursk Region?
In a tragic turn of events, Ukrainian shelling in Russia’s Kursk region resulted in fatalities. Four people were reported dead, and five others were injured as a result of the shelling, according to the acting governor of the region. The cross-border violence adds to the already tense situation and highlights the wider impact of the ongoing conflict.
How Are Ukrainians Responding to the Attacks on Christmas?
Despite the fear, danger, and hardships imposed by the Russian attacks, Ukrainians across the country remain resilient. “We will not let these strikes distort the meaning of Christmas,” said President Zelensky. As efforts continue to restore power and bring aid to the affected regions, the spirit of unity and defiance remains strong in Ukraine.
