On December 13, 2024, Russia conducted a large-scale airstrike against Ukraine, firing 93 missiles and nearly 200 drones. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described this assault as one of the most intense attacks on the country's energy infrastructure since the onset of the full-scale invasion nearly three years ago.
The Ukrainian military successfully intercepted 81 missiles, including 11 cruise missiles shot down by F-16 fighter jets provided by Western allies earlier this year. Zelensky condemned the attacks, stating that Russia is 'terrorizing millions of people' and called for a strong international response to counter President Vladimir Putin's actions.
The Russian Defense Ministry claimed that the strike targeted critical fuel and energy facilities in Ukraine, which are essential for the functioning of the military-industrial complex. This offensive was reportedly in retaliation for a Ukrainian attack on a Russian airbase using U.S.-supplied ATACMS.
The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv confirmed that the Russian strikes also aimed at transportation networks and other key infrastructure. DTEK, Ukraine's largest private energy company, reported severe damage to its thermal power plants.
Ukrainian Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko stated that energy workers are doing everything possible to mitigate the negative consequences for the energy system and promised to provide further details on the damage once the security situation allows.
The Ukrainian Air Force reported multiple drone strikes followed by swarms of cruise missiles targeting the country. Additionally, Kinzhal ballistic missiles were launched against western regions of Ukraine. Officials have warned that Russia is stockpiling missiles for future attacks.
This attack follows a similar massive strike on November 28, which involved around 200 missiles and drones, leaving over a million homes without electricity until emergency teams restored power. Ukrainian officials have noted that Russia has conducted 11 major attacks on the energy system this year, causing extensive damage and prolonged power outages across the country.
Zelensky reiterated the need for more air defense systems from Western allies and called for stronger sanctions against Russia, emphasizing that the sale of oil provides Putin with the confidence to act without fear of repercussions.