Ukraine Kyiv Power Facilities Hit by Russian Missiles Before U.S.-Brokered Talks

Russian forces launched a mass missile and drone attack on Kyiv's energy infrastructure overnight, damaging power facilities and the Northern Bridge, Kyiv's mayor Vitali Klitschko said. The attacks strained the capital's electricity, water, and heating systems as temperatures approached zero. Ukraine's energy ministry reported serious damage to systems transmitting power from two nuclear plants to Kyiv and central regions.

At least 36 ballistic missiles were launched, with only four intercepted. Some missiles were North Korean-made and struck a critical energy facility, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated. The attacks resulted in at least two deaths and around a dozen injuries, also damaging homes and businesses. Russia's defense ministry claimed strikes targeted Ukraine's military-industrial, energy, and transport infrastructure near Kyiv. Ukraine responded with drone and missile attacks on Russian regions, causing minor damage without casualties.

This escalation comes three days before a U.S.-brokered three-way peace talk in Abu Dhabi between Ukraine, Russia, and the U.S., the first since February. Moscow's intensified air campaign, including targeting Kyiv's bridges, disrupts city traffic and highlights ongoing conflict challenges. The next peace talks involve senior Russian military and diplomatic officials, signaling continued diplomatic efforts amid sustained violence. The damage to Kyiv's power infrastructure demonstrates the immediate humanitarian impact and complicates recovery and daily life for residents.