Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the latest attack by Russia, which launched over 170 missiles and drones on Christmas Day, saying it was “inhumane” and targeted the country’s energy system. The attack knocked out power in several regions, killing at least one energy worker and leaving thousands without heat or electricity.
The attack was the 13th large-scale strike on Ukraine’s energy system this year, part of Russia’s campaign to target the power grid during winter. Zelensky said, “Putin deliberately chose Christmas to attack. What could be more inhumane? More than 70 missiles, including ballistic missiles, and more than a hundred attack drones. The target is our energy system.”
Ukraine’s air force reported that it had downed 58 out of 79 Russian-launched missiles, but two North Korean-made KN-23 ballistic missiles launched by Russia were not intercepted. The United States and the United Kingdom condemned the attacks, with US President Joe Biden calling them “outrageous” and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer saying they were “despicable and brutal.”
Ukraine has been urging its allies to send more aid to help it fend off aerial strikes and push back against Russian troops. The country has also changed its Christmas celebrations to December 25, previously celebrated on January 7, in a move seen as a snub to Russia.
The attack also damaged equipment at thermal power plants, leaving millions without light and warmth as they celebrated Christmas. Ukraine’s DTEK energy company said the attack was a “depraved and evil act that must be answered.” Russia, however, reported that five people had died in Ukrainian strikes and from a falling drone in the border region of Kursk and North Ossetia in the Caucasus.
