On December 14, 2024, Russia resumed heavy attacks on Ukraine, particularly targeting the country's energy facilities. The Ukrainian Air Force reported the use of hypersonic 'Kinzhal' missiles, cruise missiles, and explosive drones by Russian forces.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced via Telegram that 93 Russian missiles were launched, with 81 being intercepted by Ukraine, aided by Western-supplied F-16 fighter jets. Prior to the missile assault on Friday morning, Russia had sent 200 combat drones toward Ukraine on Thursday night.
Zelensky characterized these attacks as among the largest assaults on Ukraine's energy system. According to the National Energy Company of Ukraine, 'Ukrenergo', power supply across the country has been disrupted, leading to a nationwide air alert.
He reiterated his call for more air defense systems from Western allies and emphasized the need for more effective sanctions against Russia, stating, 'To counter heavy Russian attacks, we need a heavier response. Only this way can we stop the terror.'
The Russian government confirmed the 'heavy' attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. The Russian Ministry of Defense stated on Telegram that these strikes were a response to the use of American long-range 'ATACMS' weapons by Ukrainian forces two days prior.
The situation on the front lines in eastern Ukraine continues to deteriorate. According to Ukrainian military observers, an unspecified number of soldiers are encircled south of the city of Kramatorsk in the Donetsk region. The General Staff of the Ukrainian Army provided no further details regarding the situation in this sector, only reporting heavy fighting around Kramatorsk.
The strategic city of Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region is currently a focal point of the conflict. Military observers reported that Russian forces have made several advances towards this city in recent days. Civilians remaining in Pokrovsk, which previously had a population of over 20,000, have been moved to safer areas.
Yuri Podolyaka, a pro-Russian blogger born in Ukraine, reported that members of Russian sabotage and reconnaissance groups are now present in Pokrovsk. However, this information has not been independently verified.
Pokrovsk, recognized as a strategic transportation hub, serves as an important logistical base for the Ukrainian military. The fall of this city could represent one of the most significant blows to the Kyiv government since the war began. Russian media often describes Pokrovsk as 'a gateway to Donetsk.'
The United States has announced new military aid to Ukraine, including a $500 million assistance package from the State Department. This package features drone defense systems, munitions for the 'HIMARS' rocket system, and armored vehicles. Just days earlier, the U.S. government had announced another aid package worth $988 million for Ukraine.
During the Democratic presidency of Joe Biden, the United States has been the largest supplier of weapons and political support to Ukraine. However, with the upcoming change in administration on January 20, when Donald Trump, the Republican president-elect, takes office, he has indicated that military aid to Ukraine will be significantly reduced. Consequently, the Biden administration is striving to secure all authorized resources from Congress during this remaining period.