Ukraine is ready: Worst-case scenario of Russian strikes on energy infrastructure revealed
Photo: Vitalii Zaichenko, head of Ukrenergo (Oleh Momot, RBC-Ukraine)
The worst-case scenario of Russian attacks on energy facilities is a blackout. However, Ukrainian energy specialists are now better prepared for such a development, states Vitalii Zaichenko, Chairman of the Board of NEK Ukrenergo (the transmission system operator of Ukraine), during a national telethon live broadcast.
"We have already experienced the worst-case scenario and know what it entails. The aggressor’s goal is to completely cut off the power system, to bring it to a blackout. This happened in 2022, but at that time, we managed quite quickly, although, of course, no one was prepared for such massive attacks. Currently, Russia’s goal is the same – to leave Ukraine without electricity and water – but we are better prepared now, both Ukrenergo and the power plants," Zaichenko emphasized.
He clarified that this refers to engineering protection and air defense. Procedures for personnel have also been developed to prevent the energy system from losing stability proactively – this is a top priority.
According to the head of Ukrenergo, power outages in Ukraine have also decreased because the pace of restoring energy facilities is quite high. At the same time, energy specialists have the necessary backup equipment provided by partners.
Russian strikes on energy infrastructure
Russia has been carrying out massive attacks on Ukraine’s energy facilities almost every week, using both various missiles and attack drones.
In particular, the Russian forces launched a massive strike on Ukraine on the night of November 25, using 14 missiles and over 430 drones.
The Ministry of Energy reported that the Russian army once again targeted key elements of the energy system.
