More than 600,000 residents of Kyiv and the surrounding region were left without electricity following one of the largest recent attacks by Russia on the night of November 29. Russian forces targeted energy infrastructure and residential buildings, Ukrainian officials reported. As of 3:00 p.m., over 360,000 Kyiv residents have already had power restored.
Widespread Destruction
According to the Ministry of Energy of Ukraine, more than 500,000 consumers in Kyiv lost power, with over 100,000 affected in the Kyiv region. Russia also attacked energy facilities in Kharkiv, Chernihiv, and other regions.
Throughout the night, explosions were heard across the capital. Emergency services extinguished fires in apartment buildings and cleared debris from damaged flats. According to confirmed information released by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, three people were killed in Kyiv and the region, while dozens were injured, including a child.
Ukraine Shot Down Most Missiles and Drones
The Ukrainian Air Forces reported that on the night of November 29, Russia launched 36 missiles and 596 drones of various types. Air defense forces intercepted 558 drones and 19 missiles, including Shahed, Gerbera, as well as cruise and ballistic missiles.
Despite the high interception rate, falling debris and direct hits caused damage at several dozen locations. Residential areas, civilian facilities, and critical infrastructure were affected.
Global reaction
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha responded to the night attack, emphasizing that Putin is using certain foreign politicians as “actors in his bloody performance.” He called for increased military aid to Ukraine, the introduction of new sanctions, and decisions on the use of frozen Russian assets.
Several world leaders also condemned the night attack and called for stronger support for Ukraine.
Finland’s Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen said Ukraine endured “another harrowing night,” adding: “Russiaʼs aggression must be stopped.”
Estonia’s Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna stressed that Moscow is trying to “break their [Ukrainian] resilience” and called for maximum pressure on the aggressor.
Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský noted: “We all want peace. Putin wants war and killing,” adding that Ukraine is ready for a ceasefire while Russia continues its attacks.
Latvia’s Foreign Minister Baiba Braže highlighted that while the world enjoys the weekend, Ukrainians leave shelters every night after yet another bombardment.
Diplomacy Amid Escalation
The attack occurred as a Ukrainian delegation traveled to the United States for consultations on a potential peace framework. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the diplomatic efforts but stressed that Ukraine must maintain its sovereignty and defense capabilities.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin again reiterated his demands, including the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from territories Moscow considers “its own.” Kyiv and its allies reject these conditions.
Russia has regularly attacked Ukraine’s energy system since 2022. In response, Ukraine has struck Russian oil depots and refineries to reduce Moscow’s revenue from energy exports.
Photo: Exilenova+/Telegram
Why It’s Important Not to Stay Silent
Despite the scale of the attacks, the world is paying less attention to them. Ukrainian officials warn this is a dangerous trend. The war continues, civilians are dying, and Russia keeps targeting homes and critical infrastructure.
In this context, it is crucial to maintain international attention and continually remind the world of Russia’s crimes — especially amid talks of so-called “peace negotiations.” Every reminder helps keep global focus on the reality of this war and the need for continued support for Ukraine.
