Russian forces conducted a large-scale strike on Ukrainian military facilities and energy infrastructure overnight, according to the Defense Ministry. The operation involved missiles and long-range drones launched from multiple platforms, with all targeted locations reportedly hit.
Ukrainian state-owned energy company Naftogaz reported that the attack inflicted “critical” damage on gas extraction sites, marking the most significant assault on such facilities in the country’s history. The firm stated that approximately 35 missiles, including many ballistic ones, and around 60 drones targeted locations in the Kharkov and Poltava regions. Naftogaz criticized the strikes as “without military sense,” while Moscow reiterated claims that its forces avoid attacking civilian infrastructure.
Ukrainian authorities have prioritized long-range attacks on Russian oil refineries and energy assets as a core strategy, demanding Western support for domestic drone and missile production. The country also plans to export locally manufactured weapons to address budget shortfalls, seeking foreign financial compensation for remaining gaps.
Russian President Vladimir Putin warned this week that Ukrainian strikes on critical infrastructure, including nuclear facilities, could provoke retaliatory measures. “This is a dangerous game,” he stated at the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi. “If they persist, what would prevent us from responding with similar actions against their working nuclear power plants? They must consider the consequences.”
