Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Russia is preparing a new wave of “massive attacks” on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, seeking to exploit extreme winter conditions to cripple electricity and heating supplies. According to Ukrainian intelligence, Moscow plans to intensify strikes as temperatures plunge to minus 20 degrees Celsius in parts of the country.
The warning comes as Ukraine struggles to keep its power grid operational under sustained missile and drone attacks that have repeatedly targeted power plants, substations and heating facilities. Zelenskyy said the intelligence findings point to a coordinated campaign designed to maximize civilian hardship during the coldest period of the year.
“We are speaking frankly with our partners about air-defense missiles and systems that we urgently need,” Zelenskyy said, adding that current deliveries fall short of what is required. He urged allies to accelerate support as pressure on Ukraine’s energy system continues to mount.
Widespread power and heating outages have already been reported across the country. The situation is particularly acute in Kyiv, where authorities have imposed emergency, scheduled blackouts in recent days to stabilize the network and prevent a total collapse.
Analysts note that Russia’s focus on energy infrastructure reflects a broader strategic objective. By undermining basic services, Moscow aims not only to disrupt Ukraine’s military logistics but also to erode civilian morale and increase political pressure on Kyiv and its Western backers. Energy has thus become a central battlefield in the conflict.
As winter deepens, humanitarian concerns are growing. Experts warn that without enhanced air defenses and rapid repairs, further attacks could trigger severe consequences for millions of civilians. The coming weeks are expected to test Ukraine’s resilience and the resolve of its international partners as the war enters another critical phase.