Russia launches major attack on Ukraine’s energy grid, causing power cuts

Key Points:

• Russia launched a major air campaign targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure around Kyiv and other regions, resulting in seven deaths and emergency power cuts in the capital for the first time since spring.
• The strikes included drone and ballistic missile attacks, with Ukraine's air defenses intercepting most drones, though many high-speed drones still penetrated defenses, causing significant damage to power plants and critical facilities.
• Ukrainian officials warned the attacks aim to disrupt civilian life during winter by causing cold and darkness, with freezing temperatures expected soon; authorities are checking backup power readiness and accelerating protective measures.
• President Zelensky reported territorial gains in the eastern counteroffensive despite the intensified attacks, while Ukraine's human rights ombudsman highlighted a critical shortage of urban shelters amid ongoing air raids.
• The conflict's impact extended beyond Ukraine, with drones crossing into Moldova's airspace, prompting NATO allies Romania and Poland to scramble jets and temporarily suspend flights at Polish airports.