Russia Targets Ukraine’s Energy Infrastructure with Renewed Attacks
Russia has attacked Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, marking the seventeenth such act affecting Naftogaz facilities. No casualties have occurred, but significant damage was reported. Ukrainian officials are making efforts to restore operations, while tensions escalate ahead of upcoming diplomatic talks.
On Friday, Russian forces targeted Ukraine’s energy and gas infrastructure, according to the Ukrainian energy minister and Naftogaz. This attack marks the seventeenth occurrence affecting the Naftogaz Group’s gas production facilities. Although no casualties were reported, significant damage was inflicted on these critical sites. Acting chairman Roman Chumak stated that efforts are underway to assess and mitigate the damage caused by the strikes.
Chumak emphasized Naftogaz Group’s commitment to restoring operations, asserting, “We are doing, and will continue to do, everything possible to ensure the country’s gas supply despite ongoing threats.” Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko also reported on Facebook that various regions faced extensive rocket and drone attacks on energy infrastructure, with power crews actively engaged in repairs.
Minister Galushchenko accused Russia of deliberately targeting energy infrastructure to harm everyday Ukrainians by disrupting power and gas supplies. The attack occurs just days before a scheduled meeting in Saudi Arabia between Ukrainian and U.S. officials to discuss potential resolutions to the ongoing conflict. Recently, Russia has increased its attacks on Ukraine’s gas production and storage sites.
In response, Kyiv has launched drone strikes on Russian refineries, successfully damaging several key facilities. A recent incident at the Ufa refinery, attributed to Ukrainian drones, was later clarified by authorities to be caused by technical issues. This development highlights the ongoing tension and mutual targeting between the two nations, as both sides seek to undermine each other’s energy capabilities.
In summary, Russia’s recent attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure reflect an escalation in hostilities amid ongoing conflict. Ukrainian officials are rapidly working to restore gas supply lines and repair damaged facilities. Meanwhile, the geopolitical tensions are underscored by forthcoming talks aimed at seeking a resolution to the war, amidst a backdrop of mutual aggression from both nations’ energy sectors.
Original Source: oilprice.com
