Russia Launches Winter Energy Campaign, Ukrainian PM Says

Prime Minister Serhii Koretskyi announced on September 30 that Russia has initiated a large-scale campaign of strikes against Ukraine's energy infrastructure in preparation for the winter. According to Koretskyi, Russian missiles and drones targeted energy facilities in Kyiv, the surrounding area, and other regions of Ukraine overnight. Since the summer, Ukraine has experienced daily attacks on energy infrastructure, but this coordinated assault marked a new level of intensity.

The strikes resulted in damage and destruction of energy equipment, though the extent of the damage was not disclosed. Koretskyi stated that he awaited a detailed report on the condition of the affected infrastructure and the expected timeline for repairs. Eleven Ukrainian regions were hit by Russian attacks starting on Tuesday evening.

These strikes extended beyond energy facilities and targeted residential buildings, social infrastructure, civilian businesses, and railway facilities. Koretskyi reported that five people, including a child, died, and fourteen others were injured across the country due to the nationwide attack.

The Kyiv mayor, Vitali Klitschko, confirmed that a Kyivteploenergo driver was killed when a Russian strike hit a warehouse in the Solomianskyi district. The driver was working at the site alongside other utility specialists. Another person was injured at the same site. Additionally, debris from the attack was discovered on the grounds of a Western embassy in the Shevchenkivskyi district. DTEK reported that their workers had restored electricity to 8,000 households following the damage to energy infrastructure.

Koretskyi ordered local authorities to inspect backup power systems serving critical infrastructure to ensure their safety. He emphasized the need to install and connect any remaining emergency power equipment promptly. Russia has consistently targeted Ukraine's power system throughout the full-scale invasion, with the most intense campaigns typically occurring during the colder months. These attacks put significant pressure on civilians due to the resulting damage to electricity, heating, and water infrastructure.