Russian forces carried out a significant attack on Ukraine’s energy and power plant infrastructure, launching hundreds of drones and missiles. The Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, reported that the attack involved at least 120 missiles and 90 drones, including Iranian-made Shahed drones. This assault was noted as the largest long-range attack from Russia in three months.
Zelenskyy stated that the primary target of the attack was Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, resulting in damage to various objects from hits and falling debris. Tragically, in Mykolaiv, two individuals lost their lives, and six others, including two children, were injured due to a drone attack. Despite the intensity of the attack, Ukrainian forces managed to intercept and shoot down 144 of the projectiles before reaching their intended destinations.
Explosions were reported in several Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv, Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, Kryvyi Rih, Dnipro, and western Ukraine. Odesa, a crucial port city, was left without power following the assault. Poland’s military responded by mobilizing its airforce within its borders as a precautionary measure, although no Russian ordnance landed on Polish soil.
It is worth noting that Russia has a history of targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, especially during colder temperatures. The recent attack aligns with Moscow’s previous strategies during the ongoing conflict between the two nations.
In response to these developments, President-elect Donald Trump is expected to appoint a peace envoy to lead negotiations aimed at ending the war between Ukraine and Russia. The role is anticipated to be voluntary, similar to Kurt Volker’s previous service as a special representative to Ukrainian negotiations.
While Trump has expressed confidence in his ability to negotiate a resolution between Zelenskyy and Putin, specific details of his approach remain undisclosed. Some advisers are reportedly urging Trump to propose terms that would establish an 800-mile demilitarized zone along the frontlines and allow Russia to retain the territories it has unlawfully seized, which constitute approximately 20% of Ukraine. Additionally, there are suggestions that Kyiv should agree to refrain from seeking NATO membership for the next two decades. Critics argue that this approach may be perceived as capitulating to Putin’s demands.
As the situation continues to evolve, the international community closely monitors the developments in the region. The appointment of a peace envoy by the incoming U.S. administration signals a potential shift in diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict and restore stability in the region.