Massive Russian Drone and Missile Strike Hits Ukraine’s Energy Infrastructure, Civilians Killed

Russia Launches Major Drone and Missile Attack on Ukraine

On November 17, 2024, Russia conducted a significant drone and missile attack on Ukraine, deemed the largest assault in months. This attack targeted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and resulted in civilian casualties.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that Russia launched 120 missiles and 90 drones across the country. Ukrainian air defenses managed to shoot down 140 aerial targets, but the attack still caused destruction and loss of life. In Mykolaiv, a drone strike killed two and injured six, including two children. Additionally, the Odesa region reported two fatalities due to damage to energy facilities that disrupted power and water supplies.

The assault marked the most severe attack in three months, according to the head of Kyiv’s City Military Administration, Serhii Popko. Explosions were reported across various regions, including Kyiv and Odesa.

Poland’s military responded by mobilizing aircraft in its airspace to ensure border security amid this massive attack on Ukraine. Reports from DTEK, a private energy company, indicated serious damage to one of its thermal power plants.

This escalation follows ongoing assaults on Ukraine’s power grid since Russia’s invasion began in February 2022, leading to emergency power shutdowns and rolling blackouts across the nation. Ukrainian officials continue to call for enhanced air defense support from Western allies to better protect against such strikes and facilitate repairs.