Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has condemned recent Russian attacks on critical infrastructure, including power grids in the Dnipropetrovsk region and a gas station in Novosilske, Odesa, as deliberate efforts to cripple Ukraine’s readiness for the heating season. The strikes, which occurred on Wednesday night, have left hundreds of families without access to heating fuel, highlighting the growing intensity of the conflict.
Zelenskyy emphasized that these attacks are part of a broader Russian strategy to undermine Ukraine’s ability to withstand the winter months, with far-reaching consequences for civilians and the nation’s resilience. He stated that the attacks are not only a violation of international law but also a direct threat to the well-being of Ukrainian citizens, who are already grappling with the aftermath of a prolonged war. The president called for increased international support to bolster Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and ensure the safety of households during the impending winter.
The Dnipropetrovsk region, a key industrial area, has been a frequent target of Russian strikes due to its strategic importance. The attacks on the power grid have disrupted electricity supply to thousands of residents, while the shelling of the gas station has compounded the challenges of maintaining a stable fuel supply. Ukrainian officials have warned that these strikes are part of a coordinated effort to weaken Ukraine’s infrastructure and force a humanitarian crisis, which could pressure the international community to increase military and financial aid.
International reactions to the latest attacks have been swift, with several countries expressing concern over the deliberate targeting of civilian infrastructure. The United Nations and European Union have called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a renewed commitment to humanitarian aid for affected regions. Zelenskyy’s government has reiterated its position that the conflict will continue until Russia withdraws from Ukrainian territory, with the president vowing to protect the country’s sovereignty and the safety of its people at all costs.