Devastating Russian Airstrikes Target Ukraines Energy Grid, Resulting in Tragic Child Fatality

Russian drones and missiles targeted Ukraine’s vulnerable energy infrastructure early Friday, resulting in widespread power outages affecting thousands and the tragic death of a seven-year-old boy.

The assault involved hundreds of drones and nearly 30 missiles, disrupting electricity in nine regions and leaving significant parts of Kyiv without power.

Journalists from AFP in the capital reported hearing multiple powerful explosions overnight, along with experiencing blackouts and interruptions to water supply across different areas of the city.

President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the recent attack on energy facilities as a «cynical and calculated assault,» calling upon Ukraine’s allies to take decisive actions in response.

The Kremlin has intensified aerial strikes on Ukraine’s energy and rail infrastructure in recent weeks, building on previous bombing campaigns from the past three winters, which left many without heating in freezing conditions.

According to Ukraine’s air force, their defense systems successfully intercepted 405 drones and 15 missiles.

There was no immediate response from Moscow regarding the attacks.

Kyiv’s mayor, Vitali Klitschko, reported that Russian forces targeted essential infrastructure, leading to power outages in the eastern part of the city, along with disruptions to water services.

Ukrainian police indicated that around 29 individuals had sustained injuries in Kyiv and other areas.

Additionally, the southeastern region of Zaporizhzhia was also struck, resulting in the death of a seven-year-old boy, as stated by Ivan Fedorov, head of the regional military administration.

Ukraine’s Energy Ministry announced that repair efforts on the damaged infrastructure had commenced, while also implementing power restrictions in several regions to alleviate pressure on the power grid.