Russia Hits Kyiv Energy Grid Ahead of Peace Talks

Russia launched 36 ballistic missiles and 172 drones at Ukraine overnight, damaging critical energy infrastructure and transport links in Kyiv and surrounding regions while inflicting widespread blackouts.

The aerial assault on Saturday disrupted water, heat and electricity supplies across the capital and multiple other regions. Workers also had to temporarily close the Northern Bridge in Kyiv to repair structural damage.

The bombardment comes just days before negotiators from Russia, Ukraine and the United States are scheduled to meet in the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday and Wednesday for high-level diplomatic talks.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the timing of the overnight offensive demonstrated a deliberate attempt to coerce Kyiv ahead of the upcoming diplomatic engagement.

"Russia is preparing for trilateral talks by launching ballistic missiles at Ukraine’s critical infrastructure," said Mr. Zelenskyy.

According to The Hindu, the aerial barrage included ballistic weapons supplied by North Korea, marking another instance of external military support for Moscow's ongoing invasion.

The Russian defense ministry confirmed the military action, stating that forces targeted facilities tied to the energy sector, transport networks and the military-industrial complex.

The attacks compound severe hardships for civilians as temperatures drop toward freezing ahead of the winter months. Energy facilities in multiple districts suffered direct hits, plunging entire communities into darkness.

Mr. Zelenskyy called on Washington to bolster its military assistance, pointing to persistent shortages of vital air defense interceptors.

"Unfortunately, there is still a significant shortage of interceptors for Patriot systems, and the United States is in the best position to help address it," said Mr. Zelenskyy.

Delegates from Moscow will include senior diplomats and military officials, while Washington and Kyiv evaluate proposals regarding future European security frameworks.

It remains unclear whether the upcoming meetings in Abu Dhabi will overcome deep divisions over territorial control and security guarantees.