Russia fired at least 34 missiles and more than 300 drones at Ukraine’s energy infrastructure overnight into January 20, marking one of the heaviest aerial attacks since the war began, Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
The majority of the weapons were shot down by Ukrainian air defenses, but the strikes nevertheless caused blackouts in many areas and turned off the heating in 5,635 residential complexes in Kyiv. Near the capital, at least one person dead. Damages were also recorded by Vinnytsia, Dnipro, Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, Poltava, and Sumy, Zelenskyy said.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on X that repair crews and emergency workers rushed to restore power, heat and water. He said that the destruction was limited by American air defense missiles that had only been delivered the day before.
“Had the deliveries been delayed even by one more day, the consequences of the strike would have been much more severe,” Zelenskyy wrote in another post on X.
The attack used ballistic and cruise missiles built this year, according to Zelenskyy. He said that shows Russia still gets critical parts despite global sanctions—components it can’t make on its own.
The timing seems to be intended to undermine American attempts to resume diplomatic relations. Zelenskyy said, “Russia despises these efforts.”
He urged Western allies to send more air defense missiles and repair equipment. Recently delivered Patriots and NASAMS interceptors made a real difference, he noted.
Zelenskyy said Ukraine is ready to sign security and recovery agreements with the United States and wants serious talks with European partners. But he told Ukrainian officials to stay home and focus on helping people rather than attending international meetings unless they produce concrete results.
“Russia cannot be on an equal footing with other countries in the world as long as it is focused solely on killing and tormenting people,” he said.
He said Ukraine would take part in meetings in Davos if they deliver concrete help for Ukrainian cities and villages. If not, he argued, Ukrainian officials should stay focused on actions that directly support the country and its citizens.
Zelenskyy listed three immediate priorities: air defense missiles, energy equipment to restore damaged systems, and support packages that strengthen the front lines and help communities survive.
He also urged Ukrainian officials and representatives to show results, saying they must stand with the state and the people and carry out their duties.
Thousands remain without heat as temperatures drop and repair work continues, according to Zelenskyy.
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