Russia Launches Massive Christmas Missile Attack on Ukraine's Power Grid

Ukraine Faces Christmas Missile Barrage

Ukrainian authorities reported on Wednesday that a massive wave of Russian missiles has severely damaged energy facilities, resulting in one death and at least six injuries, marking the second consecutive year Ukraine celebrates Christmas on December 25th.

President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the assault, stating, "Today Putin consciously chose Christmas for his attack. What could be more inhumane?" Over 50 missiles and several drones were intercepted, but some strikes led to power outages across multiple regions. Zelensky characterized this "Christmas terror" as Putin's response to discussions of a mythical 'Christmas ceasefire' between Kyiv and Moscow.

Regional Governor Sergii Lyssak emphasized, "The enemy is trying to destroy the power grid in the Dnipropetrovsk region. Since this morning, the Russian army has been massively attacking Dnipropetrovsk."

Ukrainian electricity provider Ukrenergo announced supply restrictions, with the Energy Minister stating that the transmission operator is taking necessary measures to limit consumption and minimize negative impacts on the energy system. German Galushchenko, the Energy Minister, noted that energy workers would assess damage once security conditions allow.

DTEK, Ukraine's largest private energy supplier, reported significant damage to its thermal power plants due to this latest attack, marking the 13th major assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure this year. Maxim Timchenko, DTEK's CEO, described the act of depriving millions of peaceful people of light and heat on Christmas as a depraved and malicious act that must be countered, urging allies for more air defenses.

Ukraine on High Alert

Since the war began in February 2022, Russia has repeatedly targeted Ukraine's electricity infrastructure, causing regular power outages. An air alert is currently in effect across Ukraine as the Air Force reports launches of Russian Kalibr cruise missiles from the Black Sea.

Igor Terekhov, the mayor of Kharkiv, reported a massive missile attack on the city, confirming that at least three people were injured and material damage occurred. The Ukrainian Air Force confirmed launches targeting regions including Vinnytsia, Poltava, Dnipropetrovsk, Kirovograd, and Cherkassy.

These attacks coincide with Ukraine's celebration of Christmas on December 25th for the second time in modern history, a shift from the traditional January 7th date followed by the Russian Orthodox Church. This change was formalized in the summer of 2023 through legislation signed by President Zelensky as a defiant gesture against Russia.