Russia Launches Massive Christmas Day Attack on Ukraine
Ukraine faced a devastating Christmas Day attack as Russian forces launched strikes targeting the country’s energy infrastructure. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy vowed resilience, declaring, “Russian evil will not break Ukraine and will not distort Christmas.”
A Devastating Assault on Ukraine’s Energy System
The attacks caused “serious damage” to thermal power plant equipment, according to DTEK, Ukraine’s largest energy company. Crews began repairs immediately after the shelling ceased to restore power as swiftly as possible.
Ukrainian Energy Minister Herman Hlushchenko confirmed the attacks on the energy sector in a Telegram post, describing them as “massive” and urging residents to remain in shelters. Measures were implemented to “minimize the negative consequences for the power system,” he added.
This marks Russia’s 13th attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure this year and the 10th specifically targeting DTEK’s energy facilities, the company stated.
International Condemnation
U.S. President Joe Biden condemned the attack as an “outrageous” attempt to deprive Ukrainians of heat and electricity during winter. He reaffirmed the United States’ support for Ukraine, saying, “The Ukrainian people deserve to live in peace and safety, and the United States and the international community must continue to stand with Ukraine until it triumphs over Russia’s aggression.” Biden also announced continued weapons deliveries to bolster Ukraine’s defense.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha linked the strikes to the Kremlin’s dismissal of a potential holiday ceasefire, calling it “Christmas terror” in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
A Christmas of Unity Amidst Struggle
The attack came during only the second year that Ukraine officially celebrated Christmas on December 25, a symbolic move away from the January 7 celebration traditionally observed by Russians and other Eastern Orthodox Christians. Zelenskyy emphasized the significance of this shift, saying, “For the second time in modern history, Christmas unites all Ukrainians.”
He expressed solidarity with the nation, stating, “Today, we stand side by side. And we will not be lost. As long as we do this, evil has no chance.”
Casualties in Russia’s Kursk Region
Meanwhile, Russian officials reported casualties in the partially occupied Kursk region. Acting Governor Alexander Khinshtein confirmed that four people were killed and five injured by Ukrainian shelling. The attack also disrupted gas and electricity supplies in the town of Lgov.
Resilience Amid Adversity
Despite the ongoing challenges, Ukraine’s leadership remains defiant. Zelenskyy’s message of unity and strength resonated throughout the nation as energy workers labored to restore power and citizens continued to endure the harsh realities of war.
