Russian drone strikes on power facilities in northern and southern Ukraine caused power outages for nearly 60,000 customers. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy pledged to retaliate with more strikes deep inside Russia. Both countries have escalated airstrikes in recent weeks, with Russia targeting Ukraine’s energy and transport systems, while Ukraine has been attacking Russian oil refineries and pipelines.
“We will continue our operations to defend Ukraine. The forces and resources are ready, and new deep strikes are planned,” Zelenskyy announced after meeting with Ukraine’s top general, Oleksandr Syrsky.
DTEK, Ukraine’s largest private energy company, reported that Russian drones attacked four energy facilities in the Odesa region, leaving 29,000 people without electricity early on Sunday. The port city of Chornomorsk suffered significant damage, affecting residential and administrative buildings.
Critical infrastructure is currently running on generators, according to Oleh Kiper, the governor of the Odesa region. Emergency repairs will commence once the military provides clearance. Additionally, a civilian bulk carrier flying the flag of Belize sustained minor damage near the port of Chornomorsk after hitting an explosive device.
Russian drones also targeted Ukraine’s northern Chernihiv region, damaging energy infrastructure and leaving 30,000 households without power. The Ukrainian military reported that 142 drones were launched by Russia, with 126 being shot down, but ten locations were hit.
The Kremlin accused European powers of obstructing peace efforts led by U.S. President Donald Trump and stated that Russia would continue its operation in Ukraine until Kyiv showed genuine willingness for peace. Recent large-scale Russian attacks have caused civilian casualties and destruction of homes and urban areas.
The U.S. special envoy on Ukraine criticized the deadly Russian assaults for undermining peace efforts, while Pope Leo called for a ceasefire and dialogue to resolve the conflict peacefully.
