Russia accused of ‘state-sponsored terrorism’ with huge attack on Ukraine’s energy targets on Christmas Day
A large-scale Russian missile and drone attack targeting Ukraine’s energy system on Christmas Day has been condemned as “inhumane” by president Volodymyr Zelensky.
Half a million people were left without heating in Kharkiv in temperatures just a few degrees above freezing, as blackouts were reported in Kyiv and other regions.
At least one person was killed and six others wounded in the attack, described by one Ukrainian energy chief as Vladimir Putin’s “state-sponsored terrorism”.
The massive attack came as Ukraine officially celebrated Christmas on 25 December for only the second time, in a move to reduce the influence of the Russian Orthodox Church, which celebrates on 7 January.
It provoked outrage from outgoing US President Joe Biden who vowed to deliver more weapons for Ukraine. “The Ukrainian people deserve to live in peace and safety,” he said.
Mr Zelensky said more than 70 missiles, including ballistic missiles, and over 100 attack drones were used to strike Ukraine’s power sources. Nearly 60 missiles and 54 drones were shot down, according to Ukraine’s air force.
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“Every massive Russian strike requires time for preparation. It is never a spontaneous decision. It is a deliberate choice – not only of targets but also of timing and date. Putin deliberately chose Christmas for an attack. What could be more inhumane?” Mr Zelensky said.
“The targets are our energy infrastructure. They continue to fight for a blackout in Ukraine.”
Mr Zelensky’s comments were echoed by prime minister Sir Keir Starmer, who paid tribute “to the resilience of the Ukrainian people … in the face of further drone and missile attacks from Putin’s bloody and brutal war machine, with no respite, even at Christmas.”
The prime minister added: “As we go into the new year, it remains vital that we redouble our resolve to place Ukraine in the strongest possible position to end Russia’s illegal aggression against the Ukrainian people.”
Mr Biden also released a statement condemning the “outrageous attack” by Moscow, while promising to continue a surge in weapon deliveries to Ukraine.
Washington has already committed $175 billion in aid for Ukraine – although it is uncertain the flow will continue under Donald Trump, who becomes president next month.
Mr Biden said: “I have directed the Department of Defense to continue its surge of weapons deliveries to Ukraine, and the United States will continue to work tirelessly to strengthen Ukraine’s position in its defense against Russian forces.”
