Russian drone strikes overnight have caused significant damage to a thermal power plant in Mykolaiv, southern Ukraine, leaving approximately 46,000 residents without heating as temperatures drop below freezing. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal condemned the attacks, stating they were aimed at creating a humanitarian crisis by depriving people of heat during sub-zero temperatures.
In a statement on the Telegram messaging app, Shmyhal emphasized the deliberate nature of the strikes, which he described as an attempt to inflict suffering on the civilian population. The temperature in Mykolaiv is expected to plummet to minus 7 degrees Celsius (19.4 degrees Fahrenheit) on Sunday night, exacerbating the already dire situation for those affected.
The Ukrainian military reported that Russia launched a total of 143 drones during the assault, with Ukrainian forces successfully intercepting 95 of them. The remaining drones either failed to reach their targets or were neutralized by electromagnetic countermeasures designed to disrupt such attacks. Despite these efforts, at least one individual sustained injuries, and residential areas in the Kyiv region also experienced damage.
The recent escalation in hostilities comes amid a notable increase in Russian military activity, as reported by Al Jazeera’s correspondent in Kyiv. Although Russian forces have not made significant territorial gains in recent months, the frequency and intensity of attacks have risen sharply.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, speaking at the Munich Security Conference, urged Western allies to enhance Ukraine’s air defense capabilities. He highlighted that Russia currently occupies 20 percent of Ukrainian territory and is continuing to advance in the eastern regions, as the conflict approaches its third anniversary. Zelenskyy pointed to alarming statistics, revealing that in the past week alone, Russia has unleashed around 1,220 aerial bombs, over 850 drones, and more than 40 missiles against government-controlled areas.
Zelenskyy called for a unified international response to counter Russian aggression, stressing the need for a coordinated foreign policy to address the ongoing conflict. He argued that Europe and the world must be prepared to confront the threat posed by Russia, which he characterized as "evil."
In a related development, U.S. President Donald Trump has stirred controversy by initiating peace talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin without prior consultation with European allies or Ukraine. This move has raised concerns among European leaders about being sidelined in negotiations that could significantly impact the region’s security dynamics.
As discussions about a potential peace agreement unfold, European officials have convened meetings to address their role in the situation. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot confirmed that a meeting would take place involving key European nations to ensure that any decisions regarding Ukraine include their input.
Zelenskyy has also proposed the establishment of a European army, arguing that the continent must enhance its defense capabilities in light of uncertainty regarding U.S. support. However, Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski cautioned against the idea of a unified European military force, suggesting that while Europe should develop its defense capabilities, complete unification of national armies is unlikely.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine continues to evolve, with both military actions and diplomatic efforts shaping the landscape as leaders seek solutions to a war that has had profound humanitarian and geopolitical implications.