Ukraine Reels from Massive Russian Drone Barrage Targeting Energy Grid

 

In one of the most intense aerial assaults of the year, Russia launched a wave of 400 drones and a ballistic missile across Ukraine overnight, striking key energy infrastructure and injuring at least 15 civilians.

The attacks focused on Kharkiv, Kryvyi Rih, and Vinnytsia, where power outages affected tens of thousands of residents. In Kryvyi Rih, a 17-year-old boy was critically wounded, and water supplies were disrupted. Vinnytsia saw damage to industrial facilities, including a Polish-owned factory, and eight people were reported injured. Kharkiv endured a rapid 20-minute drone strike with 17 explosions, leaving three injured.

Ukraine’s air force reported successfully intercepting most of the drones, but 57 drones and one missile still managed to hit 12 targets. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for increased international support, emphasizing the need for more air defense systems and interceptor drones to counter Russia’s persistent strategy.

The strikes come amid a broader escalation in Russia’s summer offensive, with drone swarms becoming a nightly threat. Despite the damage, Ukraine’s energy system remains stable, and repair crews are working around the clock to restore services.