Russian drones bombed power plants in Ukraine over the weekend, leaving nearly 60,000 people without electricity and heat. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said that Ukraine will not remain silent and is preparing new strikes deep within Russia.
The attacks occurred late Saturday and through Sunday in the north and south regions of the country. Odesa province in the south and Chernihiv in the north suffered the most. Power stations, residences, and buildings were hit, and several towns were forced to go on generators. Locals claim they are accustomed to blackouts, but that this one stings more as summer gives way to cold weather.
Odesa and Chernihiv Hit
The largest private energy firm in Ukraine, DTEK, reported that four power facilities were damaged in Odesa. Almost 29,000 individuals lost power, with the port city of Chornomorsk bearing the brunt of it. Regional governor Oleh Kiper reported that homes and offices were destroyed, and one individual was injured. He also said that hospitals and other essential locations are currently operating solely on backup power.
Up north, some 30,000 residences in Chernihiv also lost electricity, part of the city of Nizhyn among them. The army of Ukraine reported that Russia launched over 140 drones overnight. Most were destroyed, but some made it through and struck ten locations.
Zelenskiy Vows Strikes Back
Upon meeting his leading general, Zelenskiy declared that Ukraine is prepared to retaliate. “We will continue to do all necessary for our defence,” he posted online. He added that further strikes within Russia are being contemplated, but declined to provide any information.
Russia, however, asserted that the drones targeted military Ukrainian ports. But Ukrainian officials described the sites as not being military in nature but also including civilian zones.
Both nations have been targeting one another’s power infrastructure over the past few weeks. Russia is attempting to sever Ukraine’s transport and electricity connections, while Ukraine has been targeting oil depots and pipelines within Russia.
Trouble at Sea Too
The conflict also extended to the sea. A vessel close to Chornomorsk was lightly damaged after running into what authorities termed an “unknown device” floating in the water. The port is among the most significant maritime routes of Ukraine, and any destruction there has the potential to delay grain and food shipments.
Russia’s highest military chief alleged their troops have captured over 3,500 square km of territory and 149 villages since March. Ukraine quickly responded that the numbers are inaccurate and Russia has not been able to capture a single major city completely.
World leaders are calling again for peace negotiations. Pope Francis again called for a ceasefire. U.S. President Donald Trump is also attempting to prod both sides towards halting the war, which began back in February 2022.
FAQs
How many lost power?
Some 60,000 homes, with Odesa and Chernihiv suffering the worst.
What is Ukraine’s response?
President Zelenskiy stated that Ukraine will launch deeper strikes within Russia.
What about the ship?
One of the cargo ships off Odesa was lightly damaged after colliding with a waterborne explosive device.
When did the war start?
It started in February 2022, when Russia invaded Ukraine.
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