Ukraine receives intelligence on Russia's planned energy attacks, minister says
Photo: Denys Shmyhal, Ukraine's Energy Minister (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Ukraine has received two documents detailing Russia's preparations for attacks on the energy sector this winter. Russia has outlined in detail which facilities will be attacked, with what number of weapons, and by what types, according to Ukraine's Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal.
"Last week, we received materials from our intelligence services that they obtained from the Russian side — the strategy of action by Russian terrorists for this winter. It shocked our partners, as well as us, with its cynicism and cold, calculated terrorist approach to destroying our energy system," Shmyhal said.
According to him, the enemy is preparing comprehensive strikes targeting everything from heat and water supply to sewage systems, the destruction of our generation capacity, and the elimination of interconnectors—both at the entry points to Ukraine from Europe and across the Dnipro River.
"There are two large documents. Everything is laid out very coldly and very clearly, with tables showing the amount of weapons needed to destroy each facility. The types of weapons range from ballistic missiles to jet-powered and conventional drones. Everything has been calculated. We understand how they are going to act," the minister said.
He added that the enemy also has separate plans for major cities, including Kyiv, Kharkiv and Odesa, as well as cities with populations of around 500,000.
As Shmyhal emphasized, Ukraine is preparing for the enemy's winter campaign. More than 200 permanent concrete structures, known as shelters, have already been built over facilities that Russia has identified as priority targets. Pre-detonation screens and anti-FPV drone nets are also being installed.
In addition, the minister said Ukraine is working with partners to purchase and stockpile the equipment needed for rapid repairs in the event of attacks. However, Shmyhal acknowledged that it is impossible to protect the entire energy system with a "concrete dome."
"Of course, air defense currently provides 90% protection. But when thousands of missiles and drones are involved, even 10% is painful," Shmyhal stressed.
At the same time, he is confident that Ukraine will get through the coming winter with dignity. In the event of enemy attacks, he said, Ukraine will respond accordingly.
"Our deep strikes will continue if the enemy attacks us. Russia will feel the pain. Of course, we are preparing for this winter in a completely different way than we were prepared for the previous one. We say that this winter will be a test, but we will definitely get through it," the minister concluded.
Earlier, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed hope that the war could be brought to an end by the end of 2026. He is counting on the help of US President Donald Trump.
Meanwhile, discussions are underway regarding an energy truce between Ukraine and Russia. As Zelenskyy said, Ukraine is ready to stop striking Russian oil refineries if Russia stops attacking Ukraine. And this is not limited to the energy sector.
