Russian strikes target Ukrainian energy grid, triggering widespread outages

Emergency response efforts continue across eastern Ukraine following extensive Russian missile and drone attacks on critical energy infrastructure over the weekend. Power disruptions have left over 600,000 residents in the Dnipropetrovsk region and approximately 250,000 in Kharkiv without electricity, sparking concerns over winter heating and water access.

Ukrainian energy operator DTEK reported significant damage to key facilities, while off-site power loss at the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant forced technicians to rely on emergency diesel generators for reactor cooling.

Russia's Ministry of Defence confirmed targeting energy facilities alongside a commercial container vessel. Repair teams are currently working to stabilize the grid as regional authorities prepare for further seasonal strain.

Sources: France24, La Tribune, Libération, ORF, Tagesschau