Gerasimov Tells Putin Russian Forces Are Targeting Ukraine’s Bridges, Railways, Data Centers

Key Points:

• Russia’s Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov reported to President Putin that Russian forces are focusing strikes on strategic bridges, railway infrastructure, and data centers in Ukraine, alongside massive attacks on the country’s energy infrastructure.
• Since late September, Russia has targeted Ukrainian data centers and communications infrastructure, causing widespread internet outages, and has repeatedly struck key bridges in Kyiv and Zaporizhzhia to disrupt transportation.
• Russian tactics include repeated “small cuts” strikes that force infrastructure closures for repairs rather than total destruction, as well as “double-tap” attacks targeting rescuers at strike sites.
• The intensification of Russian strikes follows controversial energy deals and a self-declared ceasefire announced by former US President Donald Trump, which Ukraine observed but Russia did not, leading to renewed attacks on power plants and civilian infrastructure.
• Despite challenges, including restrictions on Starlink terminals affecting Ukrainian drone operations and some intelligence-sharing issues, NATO, the EU, and Ukrainian officials confirm ongoing Western support for Ukraine’s defense efforts.