The BRICS TimesMoscow Escalates Attacks on Ukraine’s Power Grid for Fourth Winter; Kyiv Retaliates Against Russian Oil Depots
Missile Fire Hits Record High
An AFP analysis of Ukrainian data shows a missile surge. Russia fired more missiles in October than any month since early 2023. This marks a new high in the conflict’s aerial campaign. Russia’s military launched 270 missiles in October alone. This is a 46% increase from the number fired the previous month. The tally is the highest monthly total since Kyiv began publishing statistics in 2023.
Targeting Civilian Power
Russian strikes caused widespread blackouts. Tens of thousands of people were affected across Ukraine. Moscow is targeting Ukraine’s power grid. This marks the fourth consecutive winter of such attacks. Kyiv and its allies call this a deliberate strategy. They say it is cynical, aiming to wear down the civilian population.
Zelensky Accuses Russia of Seeking ‘Chaos’
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the intense strikes. He accused Russia of wanting to sow “chaos” in Ukraine. Zelensky told journalists last month that “Russia’s task is to create chaos.” He said they also “apply psychological pressure on the population.” This is done “through strikes on energy facilities and railways.”
Power Shortfalls and Retaliation
Rolling blackouts started in every region, including Kyiv. Authorities introduced these power cuts throughout October. This was needed to manage power shortfalls, similar to past winters. The ICC issued arrest warrants last year. The court targeted top Russian army officials. They face charges for excessive civilian harm by striking energy sites.
Russian forces also fired 5,298 long-range drones in October. This number was slightly down (about six percent) from September. However, it still remains near previous record levels. Russia launches drones daily at Ukrainian cities and energy sites.
Kyiv has responded with its own counter-strikes. They target Russian oil depots and refineries. The goal is to cut Moscow’s crucial energy exports. It also aims to trigger domestic fuel shortages in Russia.
