While much of the world celebrated Christmas, Ukraine endured a fresh wave of devastating Russian missile and drone attacks targeting its energy infrastructure and residential areas. Ukrainian officials reported significant damage and casualties in what has been described as one of the harshest assaults in recent months.

Energy Infrastructure in Ruins

Russia unleashed a barrage of missiles on Ukraine’s energy sector, further straining the country’s already battered power grid. "The enemy is again massively attacking the energy sector," Ukraine’s Minister of Energy, German Galushchenko, wrote on Telegram. He added that emergency measures were being taken to limit power consumption and minimize the impact on the energy system.

This assault comes as Ukraine faces a brutal winter amidst nearly three years of war, with Moscow intensifying its aerial bombardment.

Residential Areas Devastated

In Kryvyi Rih, a ballistic missile struck a four-story apartment building on Tuesday, killing one person and injuring 15 others, including four in serious condition. "The monsters landed a direct hit on a residential block," wrote Oleksandr Vilkul, head of the city’s military administration. Rescue workers continue to clear the rubble, with reports of more casualties expected.

Kryvyi Rih, a city of over 600,000 people before the war, is also President Volodymyr Zelensky's hometown.

Meanwhile, the northeastern city of Kharkiv suffered a "massive missile attack" on Wednesday morning, according to Mayor Ihor Terekhov. At least seven strikes were reported, leaving several injured as explosions rocked the city. Ballistic missiles were still incoming as emergency responders worked to assess the full extent of the damage.

Christmas Bombardment

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attacks, calling them "inhumane." He revealed that over 70 missiles and 100 drones were launched in a coordinated strike aimed at crippling Ukraine’s energy system. "Putin deliberately chose Christmas to attack. What could be more inhumane?" Zelensky stated.

Ukraine’s human rights ombudsman, Dmytro Lubinets, echoed these sentiments, noting the stark contrast between global Christmas celebrations and Ukraine’s ongoing suffering. "While the world celebrates Christmas, Ukrainians endure endless Russian attacks," he wrote on Telegram.

Escalation on the Frontlines

As Moscow accelerates its offensive in eastern Ukraine, Russian forces claim to have seized more than 190 settlements this year. Ukrainian defenses are stretched thin, grappling with manpower and ammunition shortages. These intensified efforts appear to be part of Russia’s strategy to gain as much ground as possible ahead of potential shifts in international support.

The unrelenting attacks have made this Christmas one of the most challenging for Ukraine, as the nation continues its struggle for survival against a determined adversary.