Russia attacks Ukraine's energy sector overnight

Russia fired dozens of drones and missiles at Ukraine's energy infrastructure overnight, injuring at least six people and cutting off power in several areas, officials said Friday.

In response to an increase in deadly attacks by Ukraine on Russia's border areas, the Russian government has stepped up airstrikes on Ukraine in recent weeks, targeting power facilities.

Ten regions across Ukraine were attacked, damaging critical infrastructure and injuring at least six people, the Interior Ministry said.

“Last night, Russia continued its barbaric attack on Ukraine's energy system. Emergency power outages were introduced in some regions,” Prime Minister Denis Shmigal said.

“Ukraine needs further air defense systems to secure critical infrastructure and protect its population. This is the main topic of discussion with our international partners,” he said.

The Air Force said Russia targeted Ukraine's “fuel and energy sector” with a total of 99 missiles and drones overnight, of which 84 were shot down.

DTEK, one of the country's main energy suppliers, said three of its thermal power plants were attacked in a barrage of fire, causing “severe damage” to the facilities.

“Following the attack, power engineers immediately began dealing with the aftermath,” the company said in an online statement, adding that one employee was injured.

The Energy Ministry said the attack damaged power infrastructure in four regions in central and central Ukraine, causing power outages and disrupting rail traffic.

Source: guardian.ng