Just days before Christmas, Ukraine was hit by a massive air raid as Russia launched 38 missiles and 635 drones across at least 13 regions. The attacks killed at least three people, including a four-year-old child, and wounded several others, as Ukrainians were preparing to celebrate the holiday.
Energy Under Fire ⚡
The hardest hit were energy facilities in the west, according to Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko. Ukraine's grid operator reported emergency power outages in regions like Chernihiv, Lviv and Odesa. Fires broke out at critical infrastructure sites just as temperatures dipped toward freezing.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wrote on X, “This Russian strike sends an extremely clear signal about Russia's priorities. An attack ahead of Christmas, when people simply want to be with their families, at home, and safe.”
Border Defense Takes Flight ✈️
Not far from Poland, a NATO member, allied aircraft were scrambled to protect Polish airspace after missiles flew near the border. The situation underscores growing regional tensions as allies watch Ukraine's skies closely.
Ground Moves and Strategy
Moscow's defense ministry also claimed it had captured Prylipka in Kharkiv and Andriivka in Dnipropetrovsk. The strikes, including reports of Kinzhal missiles, are seen as part of a push to pressure Kyiv by targeting energy and logistics ahead of a US-backed deal.
Despite the blackouts and the cold, Ukrainians have shown remarkable resilience, rallying to repair damaged lines and support affected families. As Christmas approaches, communities are lighting candles and standing together, determined to keep the festive spirit alive. 🎄✨
Reference(s):
Russia's pre-Christmas strikes trigger power cuts across Ukraine
cgtn.com
