Ukraine’s Energy Minister German Galushchenko announced on Saturday that Russia had launched attacks on Ukrainian energy facilities in three regions, resulting in damage to equipment and injuring at least one energy worker.
The targeted regions included Dnipropetrovsk in central Ukraine, as well as Lviv and Ivano-Frankivsk in the west. DTEK, the largest private energy company in Ukraine, reported that all four of its thermal power stations were struck in the assault.
In a statement, DTEK condemned the attacks, highlighting the significant damage inflicted on the company’s equipment. Energy workers are currently engaged in efforts to mitigate the aftermath of the strikes. While casualties were reported, specific details were not provided by the company.
These attacks mark a continuation of heightened aggression against Ukraine’s power sector by Russian forces since March 22. Ukrainian officials estimate that approximately 80% of the country’s thermal generation and 35% of its hydropower capacity have been compromised as a result of these attacks.
The assault comes at a time when Ukraine is already grappling with an electricity deficit, necessitating scheduled cut-offs in various regions and emergency electricity imports. Despite mild spring weather, the country’s energy system remains strained due to the sustained onslaught on its infrastructure.
In response to the attacks, Ukrainian air defense successfully intercepted 13 Russian missiles in the Dnipropetrovsk region, according to Governor Serhiy Lysak. However, damage to energy facilities in Dnipropetrovsk and Kryvyi Rih, as well as disruptions to water supply in the city of Kryvyi Rih, were reported.
As tensions escalate, Ukraine continues to confront challenges in safeguarding its critical infrastructure and ensuring the well-being of its citizens amid ongoing hostilities.