Russia unleashed a massive missile and drone attack across Ukraine on Monday, striking energy facilities and causing widespread power and water outages. The attack, which killed at least five people, targeted infrastructure in 10 regions during morning rush hour. Ukrainian officials said it was one of the most intense strikes in weeks, as Russia continues its campaign to weaken Ukraine’s power grid ahead of winter.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attack, describing it as a deliberate assault on critical civilian infrastructure. "More than a hundred missiles and about a hundred drones targeted power facilities across the country," Zelenskyy said. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal reported significant damage in 15 regions.
In Kyiv, air defense systems intercepted approximately 15 missiles and drones aimed at the capital. However, explosions were reported in central Kyiv and several other regions, including Lutsk, where an apartment block was damaged.
The missile and drone barrage came as Ukraine made progress in a cross-border incursion into Russia’s southern Kursk region, while Russian forces advanced in Ukraine’s east. Zelenskyy also revealed that Ukraine had developed a new "drone missile," which had been used to strike deep inside Russian territory.
Russia’s defense ministry claimed that the strikes were aimed at "important energy infrastructure" supporting Ukraine's military efforts. Meanwhile, Poland placed its warplanes on alert following the attack, as western Ukraine regions bordering NATO member states were hit.
The conflict continues to escalate, with both sides accusing each other of targeting civilians and critical infrastructure. Despite ongoing efforts to secure peace, the violence shows no signs of abating.