Ukrzaliznytsia, the state-owned rail operator in Ukraine, reported that the railway infrastructure in Kherson was targeted in an attack, resulting in damage to the tracks at the city station. However, they assured that the passengers on the affected train were safe, and the rest of the trains were running according to schedule. Russian officials denied targeting civilian infrastructure but have used numerous missiles and drones in overnight attacks, according to Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy. The attacks occurred in various regions, including Lviv, Kyiv, and Vinnytsia, with the aim of disrupting and damaging infrastructure.
In a separate incident, Ukraine’s energy infrastructure was targeted in a massive attack by Russian forces, resulting in damage to power plants and transmission facilities in regions like Zaporizhzhia, Vinnytsia, and Lviv. The attack was aimed at depriving Ukrainians of electricity production and transmission capabilities. The largest energy company in Ukraine, DTEK, reported that this was the fifth massive attack on their facilities in the past month and a half, causing serious damage and casualties among workers. The company called for civilians to use power sparingly to prevent further strain on the energy system.
Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, was targeted by Russian missiles overnight, leading to air raid warnings and injuries caused by falling debris. The head of Kyiv regional military administration reported that residential and critical infrastructure objects were not damaged, but power lines were affected, leaving some areas without electricity. Efforts were underway to restore power in these areas. Belarus announced a surprise inspection of its non-strategic nuclear weapons, including planning, preparation, and potential use of these weapons. This move has raised concerns about the escalation of tensions in the region.
Ukraine’s Security Service uncovered a network of Russian FSB agents planning to assassinate President Zelenskyy and other high-ranking officials. The network included agents leaking secret information and recruiting individuals to take the President hostage and execute the plan. The SBU claimed that the FSB’s plan involved observing the movements of the targets, launching rocket and drone attacks on their residences, and eliminating them in coordinated strikes. The FSB has not yet commented on these accusations, and the claims made by the SBU remain unverified.
Vladimir Putin’s re-inauguration for a fifth term in office was followed by a statement that Russia would not shut off dialogue with the West but emphasized that Western allies needed to make their choice. Putin mentioned the importance of maintaining relations with other countries on equal terms and highlighted the need for strategic stability in discussions with the West. The upcoming resignation of Prime Minister Mishustin’s government in Russia is expected to lead to a reshuffling of the cabinet, with a focus on tax changes to address income distribution issues. Putin’s first foreign trip after his inauguration is planned for China later this month.
