Russia confirms large-scale strikes on Ukraine – MOD
Moscow has confirmed that it conducted large-scale strikes on Ukraine overnight, targeting critical energy and military-industrial infrastructure. The Russian Defense Ministry issued a statement on Sunday detailing the operation, which utilized long-range air- and sea-based weapons as well as drones.
“The strike targeted critical energy infrastructure supporting the work of Ukraine’s defense industrial complex as well as plants producing military equipment,” the ministry stated, adding, “All designated targets have been hit.”
Further specifics on the extent of the damage have not been provided.
Earlier, Ukrainian media and officials had reported a wave of attacks across various regions, prompting the national power company to impose emergency blackouts.
Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky described the scale of the bombing, claiming that it involved “around 120 missiles, including hypersonic ones, and 90 drones.” Zelensky asserted – without providing any evidence – that Ukraine’s air defenses intercepted “more than 140 incoming targets” but acknowledged that the strikes damaged several facilities.
In Nikolayev, local officials reported two fatalities and six injuries. Damage to energy infrastructure was noted in Volyn Region, resulting in power outages in Poltava Region and disruptions to water services in Odessa.
Explosions were also reported in Vinnitsa and Lviv Regions.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrey Sibiga characterized the strike as “one of the largest air attacks” and linked it to recent diplomatic developments, suggesting it was Moscow’s “true response to all those who called and visited him [President Vladimir Putin] recently,” referencing a call between Putin and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Friday.
Moscow has previously explained that its strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure are retaliatory measures for alleged Ukrainian attacks on Russian critical infrastructure and oil facilities. The Kremlin has emphasized that they are not intended to target civilians but aim to disrupt Kiev’s military capabilities and support systems.
