Emmanuel Ochayi
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky strongly criticized Russia’s missile and drone attacks on Christmas Day, calling them “inhumane.” The strikes targeted Ukraine’s power grid, killing one person and causing extensive blackouts across the country. The attacks were part of Russia’s ongoing campaign to disrupt energy systems during the harsh winter months.
“This Christmas, Russia chose to attack our energy system deliberately,” Zelensky said. “More than 70 missiles and over 100 drones were launched, aiming to leave millions of people without power and heat.”
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Ukraine’s energy infrastructure suffered heavy damage during the assault. The national energy company, DTEK, reported that thermal power plants were severely affected. Engineers are working to repair the damage, but the attacks caused power outages in several regions.
DTEK’s CEO, Maxim Timchenko, condemned the strikes, saying, “Denying light and warmth to millions on Christmas is a cruel act. This must be answered with increased air defense support from our allies.”
Missiles Target Major Cities and Regions
The attacks affected multiple areas, including Dnipropetrovsk, where officials reported one fatality. Sergiy Lysak, the region’s governor, said, “Russia is trying to destroy our power system, leaving people in the dark during one of our most significant holidays.”
In Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, 12 missiles targeted boiler houses and power facilities, wounding four people and cutting off heating to parts of the city. Governor Oleg Synegubov confirmed evacuations in the Borivske and Kupiansk areas, where Russian forces are attempting to regain control.
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Zelensky Urges International Support
Zelensky emphasized the importance of international assistance in defending Ukraine’s energy systems and preventing further attacks. He praised the air force for shooting down over 50 missiles but noted that some managed to hit critical targets.
“Christmas morning has shown once again that nothing is sacred to the aggressor,” said Svitlana Onyshchuk, head of the Ivano-Frankivsk region. She highlighted the symbolic importance of Ukraine officially celebrating Christmas on December 25 for the second year, a move away from Russia’s traditional January 7 observance.
Continued Fighting Along the Front Line
Beyond the power grid, Russian forces also intensified ground attacks in the Kharkiv and Donetsk regions. Ukrainian troops face significant pressure as they defend against better-equipped Russian forces.
Governor Vadym Filashkin reported another civilian death in Donetsk due to Russian shelling. In Kupiansk, where Moscow aims to regain lost territory, residents remain under threat as fighting continues.
Zelensky’s Call for Unity and Resilience
Zelensky’s message to the nation underscored the resilience of the Ukrainian people. “Even in these difficult times, we will stand united. We will overcome these challenges and rebuild our country,” he said.
The attacks on Christmas highlight the ongoing challenges Ukraine faces in defending its sovereignty and maintaining its energy infrastructure during the winter months.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
