Russia launched a significant attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure on Christmas Day, causing over 500,000 residents to lose access to heat, water, and electricity. This event marks the 13th major assault on Ukraine’s power grid within the year 2024. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy condemned the strike as intentional and inhumane, highlighting that Ukrainian defenses managed to intercept a substantial portion of the missiles and drones used in the attack.
As temperatures across the country hover near freezing, the impact of this assault is particularly severe. Reports indicate that heating supplies were disrupted in various regions, including parts of western and southern Ukraine, aggravating the already harsh conditions for many. In response to the ongoing challenges posed by energy shortages, Ukraine’s grid operator has urged residents to conserve power by limiting their appliance use.
The attack on Christmas Day, which is the second time Ukrainians officially celebrated this holiday on December 25 since shifting to the Gregorian calendar, coincided with statements from various Ukrainian officials reflecting on its significance. Foreign Minister Andriy Sibikha suggested that the assault was a direct response to discussions surrounding a potential “Christmas truce.”
Adding to the tension, Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán claimed that President Zelenskiy had declined offers for a ceasefire and a prisoner exchange on January 7, the date of the Orthodox Christmas. However, Ukrainian authorities refuted these claims, stating that no such proposals had been made, urging Hungary to avoid political manipulation concerning the war.