KYIV / WARSAW / BUDAPEST — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia on Friday of attempting to cripple Ukraine by systematically destroying its energy infrastructure. According to Ukraine’s air force, Russian forces launched 408 drones and 39 missiles overnight, targeting power facilities and other critical sites. Air defenses intercepted 382 drones and 24 missiles, but 19 locations were hit, causing emergency power outages across the country.
“Russia is trying to destroy our light,” Zelensky said in a video message posted on X. “Ukraine, together with its partners, is fighting against this darkness.” The national grid operator Ukrenergo confirmed nationwide emergency shutdowns to stabilize the system.
Regional ripple effects
The scale of the attack prompted immediate responses beyond Ukraine’s borders. Poland temporarily closed parts of its southeastern airspace, suspending operations at Rzeszów and Lublin airports. Polish authorities described the move as preventive, allowing military aircraft and air defense systems to operate freely amid heightened security concerns.
After several hours, air traffic resumed. Polish military officials emphasized that Poland’s airspace had not been violated.
Orbán escalates rhetoric
The security crisis took on a political dimension after Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán sharply criticized Ukraine, labeling it an “enemy of Hungary.” His remarks followed Ukrainian calls for the European Union to curb imports of cheap Russian energy.
“Anyone who tries to deprive Hungary of affordable energy is acting against our national interests,” Orbán said. “And whoever does that is an enemy of Hungary. That includes Ukraine.”
The comments drew swift criticism from analysts and European officials, who warned that such rhetoric further isolates Budapest within the EU. Observers say Orbán’s stance highlights deep divisions over sanctions policy and support for Ukraine amid Russia’s ongoing invasion.
Diplomatic pressure builds
Zelensky also revealed that the United States has given both Ukraine and Russia until June to make progress toward ending the nearly four-year war. Washington has invited delegations from both sides to new talks. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom is reportedly considering seizing Russian oil tankers linked to Moscow’s shadow fleet, signaling tougher enforcement of sanctions.
“There are no gray zones here,” Zelensky said. “You either defend life—or you allow destruction.”