On the night of December 5-6, 2025, Ukraine faced a large-scale Russian drone and missile assault, targeting energy and transport infrastructure as winter's chill set in. Officials and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported damage to power facilities in eight regions, triggering blackouts and forcing nuclear plants to curb output.
Energy Grid Under Siege
Ukraine's ministry for development of communities and territories said power and heat generation sites in Chernihiv, Zaporizhzhia, Lviv and Dnipropetrovsk were among those hit. In the southern Odesa region, around 9,500 customers are without heat and 34,000 residents have lost water supply. Port terminals also switched to backup generators after parts of their infrastructure were de-energized.
Nuclear Power Scaled Back
With three nuclear power plants providing over half of Ukraine's electricity, the IAEA noted that operators cut production due to 'widespread military activities overnight.' These plants are pivotal for civilian needs and illustrate the war's direct impact on essential services.
Railways Disrupted
Ukrzaliznytsia, Ukraine's state railway company, confirmed damage at a key hub near Kyiv, including depot facilities and carriages in Fastiv. No casualties were reported, but suburban services around the capital and Chernihiv were canceled as safety checks began.
A Battle in the Skies
Ukraine's military said it intercepted 585 drones and 30 missiles out of the 653 drones and 51 missiles launched. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha condemned the strikes on X, arguing that Russia 'continues to disregard any peace efforts and instead strikes critical civilian infrastructure.'
Looking Ahead
As the conflict nears its fourth anniversary in February 2026, experts warn that energy and transport disruptions will intensify this winter. Repair crews are working around the clock, but the recent barrage underlines the urgent need for international support and strategic resilience measures across Ukraine.
Reference(s):
Kyiv: Russian drones, missiles hit Ukraine power and transport sectors
cgtn.com
