Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a statement regarding the large-scale air attack carried out by the Russian Federation against Ukraine on the night of January 1. According to him, Russian forces launched over 200 strike drones across various regions of the country, most of which were successfully intercepted by Ukrainian air defense forces.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Purpose of the Attack and Consequences for Energy
As a result of the strikes, the Volyn, Rivne, Zaporizhzhia, Odesa, Sumy, Kharkiv, and Chernihiv regions were affected. The main targets of the attacks, as noted by the president, were energy infrastructure facilities. Due to the shelling, there were disruptions in electricity supply, and by morning, a significant number of consumers in the Volyn and Odesa regions remained without power. New power outages were also reported in Chernihiv Oblast. Energy services are working to restore electricity supply in all affected areas.
“I thank all our warriors who repelled this attack. They struck in the Volyn, Rivne, Zaporizhzhia, Odesa, Sumy, Kharkiv, and Chernihiv regions. The targets were our energy facilities,” the president stated.
According to the Air Force, during that night alone, 176 Russian drones were shot down, but 24 drones hit targets in 15 different locations across the country.
Support from Allies and Strengthening Air Defense
The president emphasized that to stop the threats from Russia, prompt supply of air defense systems is necessary, especially as the shelling does not cease even during the holiday season. He stressed that Ukraine’s partners possess equipment that is currently in short supply for Ukrainian defense and expressed hope that agreements with the United States regarding the relevant supplies will be fulfilled on time.
Additionally, the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine confirmed that two more Patriot systems have joined the country’s air defense system thanks to agreements with the German government. This step is expected to enhance Ukraine’s protection against future attacks.
Zelensky thanked everyone who supports Ukraine and works for collective security, emphasizing the importance of unity in the face of aggression.