Kyiv residents scrambled for shelter early Thursday as Russia launched a major wave of attacks targeting apartment buildings adn critical energy infrastructure across Ukraine, officials said. At least one person was killed in Kyiv and dozens injured, as explosions rocked the capital and other cities, plunging areas into darkness.
The strikes represent a important escalation in the conflict, coming as Ukraine’s allies debate further aid packages and as the war enters a critical phase. The attacks deliberately targeted civilian areas, aiming to cripple Ukraine’s energy grid ahead of winter and sow panic among the population, Ukrainian officials stated. The assault underscores Russia’s continued reliance on a strategy of attrition and its willingness to inflict widespread damage despite international condemnation.
Ukraine’s air defense systems intercepted many of the incoming missiles and drones, but some got through, causing widespread damage. In Kyiv, debris from a downed missile struck a residential building in the Solomianskyi district, killing one and injuring at least 18, according to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko. Several other districts also reported explosions and damage.
“This is a purposeful terror attack by Russia,” said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a televised address. “They are trying to break us, to demoralize us, but we will not yield.”
Energy facilities in several regions, including Kyiv, Vinnytsia, and Odesa, were hit, causing power outages affecting hundreds of thousands of people. Ukraine’s energy grid operator, Ukrenergo, warned of potential rolling blackouts throughout the day as it worked to restore power.
The attacks utilized a combination of cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and Shahed drones, officials said. Air raid alerts sounded across the country for several hours, with residents urged to seek shelter.
This is not the first time Russia has targeted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Last winter, similar attacks left millions without heat and electricity for extended periods. The latest strikes suggest Russia is preparing to repeat this strategy as temperatures drop.
The united States and other Western allies have condemned the attacks and pledged continued support for Ukraine. However, the provision of further aid is facing political hurdles in some countries, raising concerns about Ukraine’s ability to sustain its defense.
