Russia launched a large-scale missile and drone attack across Ukraine on Sunday, targeting energy and rail infrastructure, as well as residential areas. The strikes occurred just two days before the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, which began on February 24, 2022.
Intensified Assaults and Civilian Impact
Kyiv, a frequent target throughout the war, has experienced increased overnight strikes in recent weeks as Russia intensifies its assaults during the winter months. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on social media, “Moscow continues to invest in strikes more than in diplomacy,” adding that approximately 50 missiles and 300 drones were launched overnight.
Zelensky reported that the energy sector was the primary target, with damage also inflicted on residential buildings and railway infrastructure. In Kyiv and the surrounding region, one man was killed and twelve others were injured, including four children. Rescuers were seen working among the debris of a largely destroyed house in Sofiivska Borshchagivka, a suburb of Kyiv.
Attacks Beyond Kyiv
The bombardment extended beyond the capital. An explosion struck a store in Lviv, a city in western Ukraine near the Polish border, killing a policewoman and wounding 25 people. Authorities detained a Ukrainian woman suspected of carrying out the bombing, with investigations ongoing. The mayor of Lviv called the incident “an act of terrorism,” and Ukraine’s interior ministry believes the attack was carried out on the orders of Russia.
Russia’s military stated that the strikes targeted facilities used by Ukraine’s military, claiming all targets were hit. Ukraine’s energy ministry reported power outages in six eastern and southeastern regions. Two deaths were reported in Russia’s Belgorod region following a Ukrainian drone strike. Poland scrambled jets in response to detecting Russian aviation conducting strikes on Ukrainian territory.
Political Complications and Ongoing Conflict
The attacks occurred as Hungary indicated it would block the EU’s latest sanctions package against Russia unless Ukraine re-opens a key oil pipeline supplying the country. Ukraine stated the Druzhba pipeline, which delivers Russian oil to Slovakia and Hungary, was damaged by Russian strikes in late January.
Despite occupying close to a fifth of Ukrainian territory and continuing to advance in the Donbas region, Zelensky stated on Friday that Ukraine is “definitely not losing” the war and that victory remains the goal. He reported Ukrainian forces had reclaimed approximately 300 square kilometers of territory in recent counter-attacks, though this claim has not been independently verified.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the primary target of Sunday’s attacks?
According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the main target of the attack was the energy sector.
What was the response to the attack in Lviv?
An explosion in Lviv killed a policewoman and wounded 25 people. Authorities detained a Ukrainian woman suspected of carrying out the bombing, and the mayor called it “an act of terrorism.”
What is Hungary’s position on sanctions against Russia?
Hungary said it would block the EU’s latest package of sanctions against Russia unless Ukraine re-opens a key oil pipeline that supplies the country.
As Ukraine approaches the fourth anniversary of the full-scale invasion, what steps might be taken to de-escalate the conflict and pursue a path toward a lasting resolution?
