In the early hours of February 17, Russian forces executed a calculated assault on Ukraine, targeting the country’s energy infrastructure. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that the attack involved nearly 400 drones and 29 missiles of various types, including ballistic missiles.
President Zelensky described the operation as a deliberate effort to maximize damage to Ukraine’s energy systems. He noted that while a significant number of drones and missiles were intercepted, there were still instances of successful strikes. The attack affected 12 regions across Ukraine, leading to damage to over 10 residential buildings and railway facilities, with reports indicating at least nine injuries, including children.
In the city of Odesa, the drone strikes resulted in extensive damage, leaving tens of thousands without heating and water services. Zelensky emphasized the need for international partners to respond to these assaults on civilian life and called for accountability for Russia’s aggressive actions.
“Our diplomacy will be more effective if there is justice and strength. The pressure on Russia must come from sanctions and continuous, rapid support for the Ukrainian military and our air defense systems. For peace to be real and just, we must act against the sole source of this aggression, as Moscow continues its killings and mass attacks,” Zelensky stated.
Details of the attack revealed that in Ivano-Frankivsk, Russian forces targeted the region with missiles, although there were no reported injuries. However, the heating supply was temporarily suspended in one community as restoration efforts were underway.
In Dnipropetrovsk, Russian troops attacked five districts using missiles, drones, artillery, and aerial bombs, damaging businesses, private homes, and vehicles. The Cherkasy region also faced strikes from drones and missiles, resulting in damage to two houses.
Odesa experienced significant fires due to drone strikes, affecting multiple locations in the city. Notable incidents included fires at a car service station and a tire warehouse, which destroyed two vehicles. Additionally, two grocery stores were set ablaze, and a 25-story residential building sustained damage to apartments and the stairwell on the 22nd floor. An energy facility operated by DTEK Odesa Electric Networks also suffered further damage.
In the Sumy region, the Kirikiv community in the Okhtyrka district was targeted, resulting in one fatality and six injuries, including children. Those injured were hospitalized and are receiving necessary medical care, according to local reports.
On February 17, Russian forces launched a coordinated attack on Ukraine, primarily targeting its energy infrastructure. The assault resulted in significant damage across multiple regions, leading to injuries and disruptions in essential services.