Thu Dec 26 01:52:08 UTC 2024: ## Russia Launches Christmas Day Missile Attack on Ukraine’s Energy Grid
**Kyiv, Ukraine** – Russia launched a massive missile and drone attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure on Christmas Day, causing widespread power outages and casualties across the country. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy denounced the attack as a “conscious choice” by Russia to inflict suffering on the Ukrainian people during the holiday.
The Ukrainian air force reported intercepting 184 missiles and drones, though many still reached their targets. The strikes caused power outages in major cities, including Kyiv, forcing residents to seek shelter in underground metro stations. In Kharkiv, half a million people were left without water, electricity, or heating in freezing temperatures.
Russia’s defense ministry confirmed the attack, claiming all targets were hit and their objectives achieved. This marks the 13th major assault on Ukraine’s energy sector this year, according to DTEK, the country’s largest private energy company. US President Joe Biden condemned the attack, stating its purpose was to deprive Ukrainians of heat and electricity during the winter. He directed the US Department of Defense to continue supplying weapons to Ukraine.
Despite the devastation, many Ukrainians expressed resilience. While some recounted fear and anger at having to shelter during the holiday, others vowed to celebrate Christmas despite the circumstances. Ukrenergo, Ukraine’s state power company, warned of power outages lasting until at least the end of the day.
The attack also sparked international condemnation. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha called the strikes “Christmas terror,” noting a Russian missile traversed Moldovan and Romanian airspace. Moldova confirmed the missile’s passage, while Romania denied detection. Meanwhile, Russia reported civilian casualties from Ukrainian shelling in its Kursk region. The incident highlighted the ongoing conflict’s devastating impact on both sides.
First Piper 