Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a warning to Moscow, stating that if Russia attempts to disrupt Ukraine’s power supply infrastructure, retaliatory measures could lead to blackouts in Russia’s capital. This comes amidst concerns of potential attacks on Ukraine’s power facilities, similar to previous incidents where Russia targeted energy production, forcing shutdowns in some Ukrainian regions during winter.
Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine will respond in kind to any threats of blackouts, highlighting the need for Russia to understand the consequences of such actions. Media reports from Ukraine have detailed Russia’s past attacks on thermal plants and hydropower facilities, resulting in widespread blackouts across the country.
Recent events, including an attack on a thermal power facility in Kyiv Oblast, have raised concerns in Ukraine about possible future assaults. With reports indicating Russia’s intentions to target energy infrastructure once again, Ukrainian officials are on high alert.
While preparing for potential attacks, Ukraine faces challenges in defending against drones and missiles due to limited air defenses. The country’s largest private energy company, DTEK, expressed the difficulty of protecting sites from coordinated drone and missile attacks.
The conflict in Ukraine has escalated, with the frontline expanding to nearly 800 miles. Ukrainian forces are engaged in frequent combat with the larger Russian army, facing new tactics such as small assault groups infiltrating their lines. General Oleksandr Syrskyi highlighted the growing challenges faced by Ukrainian forces, with an increase in combat engagements along the extended frontline.
Despite ongoing efforts, US President Donald Trump acknowledged the stalemate in ending the conflict. He expressed optimism in Ukraine’s ability to reclaim lost territory from Russia, amounting to approximately 20% of its landmass.