In early February 2026, Russia launched a major assault on Ukraine’s energy network, striking power plants, heat stations and key electrical infrastructure in several cities including Kyiv, Kharkiv and Dnipro. These strikes are being described as the most powerful blow to Ukraine’s energy grid so far this year.
Why This Matter Is So Severe
The attacks came during a week of brutal winter weather, with temperatures falling well below –20 °C. Many Ukrainians rely on electricity and heat to survive such extreme cold.
More than 1,000 apartment buildings in Kyiv alone were left without heating and electricity, forcing residents to seek warmth in communal centres and shelter stations.
A power plant in Kharkiv was reported damaged beyond repair, worsening the crisis in that region.
International Response
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer publicly condemned the strikes, calling them “barbaric” and “particularly depraved” — especially given the timing during severe winter conditions. He said the attacks did not seem aimed at military objectives but instead targeted civilians by destroying vital services.
The ikes also took place at a sensitive moment when Ukraine, Russia and U.S. diplomats were meeting in Abu Dhabi for peace talks, increasing concerns that renewed violence could derail diplomatic efforts.
Human Impact
With power and heating cut off in freezing conditions, people across affected cities have faced dangerous living conditions, including:
reliance on temporary heating centres and generators,
disrupted daily life as schools and businesses struggle without power,
psychological strain on families trying to cope with winter and conflict.
Ukrainian officials have noted that restoring infrastructure will take significant time and resources given the scale of the damage.
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