Tue Feb 03 08:29:05 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Russia Resumes Intense Attacks on Ukrainian Energy Infrastructure Following Brief Lull, Despite Truce Claims
The Story:
Russian forces launched a massive assault on Kyiv and Kharkiv overnight, employing hundreds of drones and missiles to target Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. The renewed offensive, which left thousands of homes without heating in sub-zero temperatures, follows a purported weeklong truce. Ukrainian officials accuse Moscow of deliberately timing the attacks to coincide with the onset of severe winter conditions, exacerbating the impact on civilian populations. The attacks occurred despite claims by former U.S. President Donald Trump that Russian President Vladimir Putin had agreed to a pause in hostilities.
Key Points:
* 450 drones and 60+ missiles were used in the overnight attacks on Kyiv and Kharkiv.
* At least two people were wounded in each city.
* 1,170 residential buildings in Kyiv were left without heating as temperatures plummeted to -17 degrees Celsius (1.4 degrees Fahrenheit).
* Heating was cut to 820 buildings in Kharkiv to prevent the wider network from freezing.
* Donald Trump claimed Putin had agreed to a pause in attacks, which Moscow stated would last only until Sunday.
* Attacks occurred as Russian and Ukrainian officials prepared for US-brokered talks in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday.
Key Takeaways:
* The attacks demonstrate a continued Russian strategy of targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure, especially during winter.
* Conflicting accounts exist regarding the duration and scope of any agreed-upon truce, raising questions about the reliability of diplomatic efforts.
* The timing of the attacks, coinciding with peace talks, suggests Russia may be using military pressure to influence negotiations.
* The attacks will likely intensify the humanitarian crisis in affected cities, further straining resources and infrastructure.
* The international community’s response to these renewed attacks will be crucial in determining future diplomatic and military developments.
First Piper 