Russia launches massive attack on Ukraine on Christmas Eve, damaging energy infrastructure

On the night of Dec. 25, Russia launched a massive assault on Ukrainian cities, inflicting significant damage on energy infrastructure, residential buildings, and civilian facilities. The attacks targeted Kharkiv, Kryvyi Rih, Dnipro, and Kremenchuk. Air raid sirens sounded across the country, and authorities urged residents to remain in shelters until the bombardment subsided.

Ukraine's Minister of Energy, Herman Halushchenko, reported that Russian forces deliberately targeted the country’s energy infrastructure. Energy company DTEK confirmed severe damage to equipment at thermal power plants.

“Today, Russia executed yet another large-scale terrorist attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. This marks the 13th such attack this year and the 10th targeting DTEK facilities. Since the start of the full-scale invasion, our thermal power plants have been shelled over 200 times,” the company stated.

Following the cessation of the strikes, repair teams immediately began work to address the damage and restore operations.

Kharkiv suffers intense strikes

Kharkiv endured heavy missile barrages. According to Mayor Ihor Terekhov, a series of explosions shook the city, and new ballistic missile launches were reported in the region. Initial reports indicate damage to civilian infrastructure and multiple fires. The head of Kharkiv’s Regional Military Administration confirmed that six people were injured in the attacks. Earlier, Ukraine’s Air Force had warned of missile launches targeting Kharkiv from Russia’s Belgorod region and the Black Sea.

Casualties in Kryvyi Rih

In Kryvyi Rih, the number of casualties from the previous day’s attack rose to 17, with one fatality, according to Regional Military Administration head Oleksandr Vilkul. Among the injured were two girls aged 14 and 16. Ten people remain hospitalized, including the children. One adult is in critical condition, two are in serious condition, and the others are in moderate condition. Doctors are working tirelessly to save their lives and are providing comprehensive care.

The strikes caused extensive destruction to residential buildings and city infrastructure. “In addition to the building struck by the missile, four apartment blocks, nine shops, three cafes, and over 20 vehicles were damaged,” Vilkul reported.