Ukrainian energy workers are facing immense challenges as Russian airstrikes continue to target the country’s energy infrastructure, causing widespread damage and wreaking havoc on the economy. The staff at a power plant owned by DTEK, the country’s largest private energy supplier, are working tirelessly to repair the facilities that have been repeatedly hit by Russian attacks. The workers express concerns about being able to prepare for winter in time, as the damage inflicted by the airstrikes is extensive and takes a long time to fix. They are calling for air-defense systems like the U.S.-made Patriots to help stop the attacks and prevent further destruction.
State Emergency Service workers were seen assessing the damage at the DTEK power plant, where parts of the facility were left in a state of disarray following a cruise-missile attack. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba revealed that half of the country’s energy system has been damaged by Russian attacks, with DTEK reporting an 80% loss in electricity-generating capacity from nearly 180 aerial attacks since the start of Russia’s invasion in 2022. The company estimates that it could take up to two years to repair all the damaged plants, even if there are no further strikes.
Despite the dangers they face, Ukrainian energy workers remain dedicated to their work, braving the airstrikes to ensure the country’s power supply is restored. Shift supervisor Ruslan recounts the harrowing experience of being on duty when the air alarm sounded, sending his crew to safety before the blast struck just meters away. Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure have been devastating, with power plants being targeted repeatedly and with increasing accuracy. The workers are aware of the risks they face, but they continue to show up for work every day, knowing how crucial their efforts are for the country.
The situation has become more critical in recent months as more Russian missiles manage to penetrate Ukraine’s defenses while the country awaits additional supplies from allies, including a significant package from the U.S. worth $61 billion. Delays in the approval and delivery of these weapons and ammunition have put a strain on Ukraine’s energy firms, which are already struggling to cope with the damage inflicted by Russia. The workers at DTEK have been wounded and killed in the attacks, but they persevere in their mission to repair the power plants and ensure that the country has a stable energy supply.
Machine operator Dmytro describes the devastation he witnessed during the recent attack, reflecting on the years of hard work that went into building the power plant, only to see it destroyed in a matter of seconds. Despite the heartbreak and danger, Dmytro remains committed to his duty towards the country, showing up for work every day with determination and resolve. The challenges faced by Ukrainian energy workers underscore the urgent need for support from allies like the U.S. to provide the necessary equipment and resources to protect the country’s energy infrastructure and safeguard its future.
