Ukraine has taken drastic measures in response to large-scale attacks on its energy infrastructure by Russia. Following a barrage of drone and missile strikes on energy targets, at least 19 people were injured, prompting emergency power shutdowns in most regions of the country. The state-owned power grid operator, Ukrenergo, confirmed that the shutdowns have impacted both industrial and household consumers, leaving only three regions unaffected.
This latest escalation comes amidst sustained Russian assaults on Ukraine's power grid in recent weeks, leading to nationwide rolling blackouts. The lack of adequate air defenses has hindered repair efforts, raising concerns about worsening shortages as demand peaks during the summer and winter months.
Recent significant attacks include an April assault that damaged Kyiv's largest thermal power plant and a major offensive on May 8 targeting power generation and transmission facilities across multiple regions. In response to Saturday's attacks, Ukraine's air force reported successfully intercepting all 25 drones launched overnight.
Meanwhile, Russia claimed territorial gains in the partially Russian-occupied Donetsk region, specifically seizing control of the village of Umanske. The focus of Russia's latest offensive appears to be on Ukraine's northeastern Kharkiv region, with additional incursions in Donetsk, Sumy, and Chernihiv regions.
Across the border in Russia, violence has also escalated, with six individuals sustaining injuries in shelling in Shebekino and a local official losing their life due to an explosion in the Korochansky district. In the Kursk region, three people were injured by an explosive device dropped from a drone.
Furthermore, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused China of aiding Russia in disrupting an upcoming peace conference organized by Switzerland to address the conflict in Ukraine. The situation remains tense as both countries navigate the complexities of the ongoing crisis.
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