Russia launches massive attack on Ukraine, targeting energy infrastructure with Iranian-made weapons.
At a Glance
- Russia launched 120 missiles and 90 drones in a large-scale attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure
- Ukrainian President Zelenskyy accused Russia of using Iranian-made Shahed drones and missiles
- At least eight civilians were killed and 18 injured in the attacks
- Ukrainian forces intercepted 144 drones and missiles, but many projectiles still hit their targets
- Power outages and rolling blackouts expected across most regions, lasting up to eight hours
Massive Russian Attack on Ukrainian Infrastructure
In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, Russia launched a massive drone and missile attack on Ukraine, primarily targeting energy infrastructure. The assault, described as the largest in recent months, has raised concerns about Russia’s intentions to damage Ukraine’s power generation capabilities as winter approaches.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that 120 missiles and 90 drones were launched, including Iranian-made Shaheds and various types of missiles. The attack resulted in widespread damage to energy facilities and civilian casualties across the country.
This morning began with one of the largest Russian strikes on Ukraine. 210 missiles and drones, including aeroballistic and hypersonic missiles, as well as dozens of Shahed drones, were launched. All of them targeted civilian infrastructure—critical facilities like power plants… pic.twitter.com/PriNcqjJ8C
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) November 17, 2024
Casualties and Damage
The assault led to tragic consequences, with at least eight civilian deaths and 18 injuries reported. In Mykolaiv, a drone attack claimed two lives and injured six people, including two children. The strikes caused significant damage to energy infrastructure, resulting in power cuts across several regions, including Kyiv, Donetsk, and Dnipropetrovsk.
“The enemy’s target was our energy infrastructure throughout Ukraine. Unfortunately, there is damage to objects from hits and falling debris. In Mykolaiv, as a result of a drone attack, two people were killed and six others were injured, including two children,” Zelenskyy said.
A thermal power plant operated by DTEK was reported to be “seriously damaged,” further compromising the country’s energy supply. The attacks have led to emergency power cuts, with DTEK announcing ongoing restoration efforts. As of the latest reports, 400,000 homes have had power restored, but 321,000 remain without electricity.
Ukrainian Defense and International Response
Despite the overwhelming nature of the attack, Ukrainian defense forces managed to shoot down 140 air targets. However, many projectiles still reached their intended targets, causing extensive damage. The assault has prompted Ukrainian officials to call for increased air defense support from Western allies.
The international community has responded to the crisis, with Poland mobilizing aircraft to ensure safety in its border areas. The International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed that while Ukraine’s nuclear power plants were not directly damaged, some connected electrical substations were hit.
