Russia’s attack on Ukraine’s power grid plunges country into darkness

Weeks of relentless Russian airstrikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure have pushed Kyiv to implement nationwide rolling blackouts, plunging the war-torn country into darkness. The attacks, which have been ongoing since March, have caused significant damage to power generation and transmission facilities, with half of Ukraine’s energy system now in ruins, according to Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba.

The latest strike in April targeted Kyiv’s largest thermal power plant, exacerbating the already dire situation. Entire apartment blocks in the capital have been left without power, with at least 10% of consumers disconnected, as the country struggles to cope with the escalating crisis.

Ukrainian energy minister Herman Halushchenko has warned that without adequate defences and alternative energy sources, the shortages could worsen, especially as demand peaks in the harsh winter months. The country is now appealing to Western allies for air defence systems and spare parts to repair its damaged infrastructure.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock recently visited a destroyed coal-fired plant in central Ukraine, underscoring the urgent need to address the power gap. The attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, along with other civilian targets, have been condemned as acts of terrorism by experts, designed to instill fear and pressure on the Ukrainian population.

As Ukraine grapples with the devastating consequences of the ongoing attacks, the focus is now on restoring power generation and securing alternative energy sources before winter sets in. The challenges ahead are immense, but the resolve to overcome them remains strong as Ukraine seeks support from the international community to safeguard its energy infrastructure and protect its citizens.