Russia Strikes Ukraine Ahead of US-Led Peace Talks
In a significant escalation of its ongoing conflict with Ukraine, Russia launched a major assault involving approximately 450 drones and 70 missiles. This occurred shortly before high-stakes US-mediated peace talks were set to begin in Abu Dhabi.
Details of the Attack
The attack, reported by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, marked one of the largest offensives in nearly four years of war. Aerial strikes targeted five Ukrainian regions, focusing particularly on the nation’s power grid. This strategy aims to disable electricity, heating, and water supplies during a harsh winter.
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At least 10 individuals sustained injuries from the bombardment. Zelenskyy condemned Russia for prioritizing terror over diplomacy, emphasizing the need for enhanced air defense supplies from Western allies. This call comes as the conflict continues to stretch on and damage increases.
Impact on Infrastructure
The assault significantly affected Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, specifically targeting facilities operated by DTEK, the country’s largest private energy company. This incident marks the ninth major attack on DTEK since October.
In Kyiv, the strikes resulted in damage to residential buildings, a petrol station, and a kindergarten, injuring five people. Moreover, 1,170 apartment buildings in the capital were left without heating, as reported by Mayor Vitali Klitschko.
The attack extended beyond the capital, impacting other key regions such as Kharkiv in the northeast and Odesa in the south, where injuries were also reported.
Historical Significance
Notably, the aerial assault resulted in damage to the Hall of Fame at the National Museum of the History of Ukraine in World War II. Culture Minister Tetiana Berezhna highlighted the irony of targeting a site memorializing the past fight against aggression.
Upcoming Peace Talks
The US-led peace discussions are scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday in Abu Dhabi. While previous meetings between Moscow and Kyiv were described as constructive, a breakthrough remains elusive. Key issues still pending include Russia’s demands regarding the control of occupied Ukrainian territories.
As the conflict nears its fourth anniversary, Russia’s strategy has consistently targeted Ukraine’s electrical infrastructure, further complicating negotiations and civilian conditions.
