Ukraine’s energy infrastructure is under severe strain as Russian strikes force emergency power cuts across most of the country, Ukrenergo, the national grid operator, confirmed on Wednesday. The measures extend controls already implemented on Tuesday, leaving only Donetsk region unaffected.
The escalation comes as winter approaches, raising concerns that millions could face freezing temperatures without electricity. Emergency cuts had begun in eight regions on Tuesday, following strikes across the country last week. Ukrenergo reported that repair work is ongoing in all affected areas and urged citizens to use electricity sparingly.
President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attacks, accusing Moscow of attempting to create chaos. The strikes have also hit Ukraine’s gas sector, adding further pressure on energy supplies.
In response, Ukraine has increasingly targeted Russian oil refineries and hydrocarbon pipelines using drone attacks. These operations have contributed to a steady rise in fuel prices across the country since summer.
The energy crisis highlights the vulnerability of civilian infrastructure during the ongoing conflict. Authorities continue to coordinate emergency measures, but experts warn that the coming weeks could be particularly challenging if the strikes continue. Citizens are being advised to prepare for potential outages while repair teams work around the clock to restore power.
With winter temperatures expected to drop sharply, the situation underscores the urgent need for energy resilience amid the ongoing conflict.
