Ukraine experienced fresh Russian missile and drone attacks on energy infrastructure from Tuesday night into Christmas morning, prompting warnings of immediate power outages from Energy Minister German Galushchenko. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attacks, calling them a calculated move by Russian President Vladimir Putin to target Christmas.
“Every Russian massive strike is premeditated, targeting specific dates and locations,” Zelenskyy said on Telegram. “Putin deliberately chose Christmas for this inhumane attack—over 70 missiles, including ballistic ones, and more than 100 strike drones aimed at our energy sector. Their goal is to force a blackout in Ukraine.”
Ukraine’s defenses intercepted over 50 missiles and a significant portion of the drones, but some targets were hit, causing outages in multiple regions. Restoration efforts are underway. Ukraine’s air force reported that Russia launched 78 missiles, of which 59 were intercepted, and 106 drones, with 54 downed and others lost in flight.
Galushchenko announced on Facebook that grid operators were implementing necessary restrictions to minimize damage while warning residents to remain in shelters.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha described the attacks as “Christmas terror” and a response to discussions about a potential ceasefire.
Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed responsibility for the strikes, stating they targeted critical energy infrastructure essential for Ukraine’s military industry. It declared the mission a success, asserting that all intended targets were hit.
Meanwhile, Ukraine celebrated its second official Christmas on December 25, moving away from the Orthodox calendar traditionally observed in January.
Zelenskyy highlighted the significance of unity during the holiday, writing, “Today, we stand together as one family, one nation. Evil has no chance as long as we remain united.”
