smoke coming out of the power plant in front of her before the sound of an explosion knocked her off her feet. When she came to, the power was out, and she had to find a way to keep her children warm and fed without electricity. This feeling of helplessness and uncertainty is not unique to Viktoriia – it is a reality for many Ukrainians as Russia continues its attacks on the country’s energy infrastructure.
The recent attack on the Kyiv Hydroelectric Power Plant, while not causing critical damage to the Kyiv dam, serves as a reminder of the constant threat that Russia poses to Ukraine’s energy security. The director of Ukrhydroenergo, Ihor Syrota, reassured the public that there is currently no danger of breaching or flooding at the Kyiv dam, but the ongoing attacks on energy infrastructure in Ukraine have left many stations inoperable or severely damaged. The destruction of the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant and the Dnipro Hydroelectric Power Plant by Russian forces has had devastating consequences for the region, with economic and environmental damage that will take years to repair.
Despite the challenges posed by Russia’s attacks, Ukrhydroenergo is working tirelessly to restore its infrastructure and ensure the safety and security of its employees. The dedication of the staff at the Kyiv Hydroelectric Power Plant to following safety protocols and seeking shelter during the attack prevented any injuries among the workforce. However, the long-term consequences of the attack remain unclear, as debris removal and the extent of the required repairs are still being assessed. The director emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant and resilient in the face of continued threats from Russia.
The significance of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure extends beyond ensuring the country’s ability to provide electricity to its citizens. Russia’s attacks on energy grids are a deliberate strategy to weaken Ukraine’s resolve and ability to defend itself against the invasion. By targeting critical infrastructure, Russia aims to create widespread power outages and disrupt essential services, causing chaos and instability in the country. The repeated assaults on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure have forced the government to impose restrictions on energy consumption, affecting the daily lives of millions of Ukrainians.
For Viktoriia and many others like her, the constant threat of power outages and uncertainty about the future have created a sense of near-death feeling. The trauma of living through bombing raids and attacks on critical infrastructure has taken a toll on the mental and emotional well-being of Ukrainians. As the conflict with Russia continues, the resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people to rebuild and defend their country in the face of adversity remain a testament to their strength and courage. Support for independent journalism is crucial in raising awareness of the ongoing crisis in Ukraine and the need for solidarity and assistance from the international community.
