Russia Prepares Major Attacks on Ukrainian Energy Infrastructure as Casualties Mount
Quick Brief
Russia's defense ministry has announced preparations for large-scale strikes against Ukraine's energy infrastructure in retaliation for Kyiv's attacks. This announcement comes just days after a devastating Russian warehouse strike west of Kyiv left 38 people dead. Additional attacks across the country have resulted in further casualties, including children.
What Happened?
On Sunday, Russia's defense ministry stated on Telegram that its forces are preparing for massive strikes against Ukraine's energy facilities in response to Kyiv's attacks on Russian oil and energy infrastructure. The announcement coincides with a rising death toll from a Friday night Russian strike on a warehouse in the village of Myla, west of Kyiv, which President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed has reached 38 fatalities with four people still missing. Ukrainian officials stated the warehouse was storing ammunition, and the blast triggered fires affecting nearby homes. Additional weekend strikes also caused casualties: a Saturday attack in Kyiv killed a 2-year-old girl and injured 12 others, while guided bombs dropped on private houses in the eastern village of Bilbasovka on Sunday killed a 13-year-old and an adult.
Why It Matters
The impending threat of renewed assaults on Ukraine's energy infrastructure recalls the severe conditions of the previous winter, when targeted Russian strikes devastated the power grid and left millions without heat or electricity during sub-zero temperatures. Combined with the escalating civilian death toll from recent bombings, the conflict continues to inflict heavy humanitarian costs as it reaches day 1,650.
Key Facts
- Russia's defense ministry announced preparations for massive strikes against Ukraine's energy sector.
- The death toll from a Friday night Russian warehouse strike in Myla, west of Kyiv, rose to 38, with four missing.
- President Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted the Myla warehouse strike was the deadliest attack of the year.
- A Saturday Russian strike in Kyiv killed a 2-year-old girl and injured 12 people.
- Russian bombs in the eastern village of Bilbasovka killed a 13-year-old and an adult on Sunday.
Compiled from 1 outlet
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