Russia Launches Missile and Drone Attack on Ukraine, Killing Three

On the night of December 22, 2025, Russia executed a significant missile and drone assault on Ukraine"s energy infrastructure. This attack involved the launch of over 30 missiles and more than 650 drones, marking one of the most extensive assaults in recent months. The western regions of Ukraine were particularly affected, with reports of near-total blackouts in the Rivne, Ternopil, and Khmelnytskyi oblasts.

Key Details

The missile and drone strikes resulted in emergency power outages being implemented nationwide, impacting major cities including Kyiv and Odesa. The Ukrainian authorities confirmed that at least three civilians lost their lives in the attack, which included the tragic death of a child. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the strikes, labeling them as acts of deliberate terror, particularly poignant as they occurred just days before Christmas.

In response to the devastation, local officials reported that the energy infrastructure was severely damaged, exacerbating the ongoing energy crisis in Ukraine. The strikes come amid heightened tensions in the region, with Ukraine continuing to defend its sovereignty against Russian aggression.

Background

This attack is part of a broader pattern of military aggression by Russia against Ukraine, which has been ongoing since the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the subsequent conflict in Eastern Ukraine. The targeting of energy infrastructure is a tactic that has been employed by Russian forces to undermine Ukraine"s resilience and create chaos within the civilian population. The timing of this attack, just before a major holiday, underscores the psychological warfare aspect of the conflict.

President Zelensky"s condemnation of the attack highlights the Ukrainian government"s stance on Russian military actions, which they view as not only a threat to national security but also as a violation of human rights. The international community has largely condemned Russia"s actions, with various nations offering support to Ukraine in its defense efforts.

What"s Next

In the aftermath of this attack, Ukrainian officials are likely to intensify their calls for international support, both in terms of military assistance and humanitarian aid for affected civilians. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant displacement and hardship for many Ukrainians, and the recent strikes are expected to exacerbate these conditions.

As previously reported, the situation in Ukraine remains fluid, with potential for further escalations in military activity. The international community"s response will be crucial in shaping the next steps in this ongoing conflict. For more on related coverage, see our article on the recent developments in international military actions.