Russian Strikes Hit 28 Ukrainian Energy Sites, Cutting Power to 550,000 Households

Russia struck 28 energy facilities across Ukraine with missiles and drones on Oct.

19, President Volodymyr Zelensky said.

At least 550,000 households lost electricity, and the attacks affected energy sites in 11 regions, according to Ukrainian officials.

Russia launched 16 ballistic missiles and more than 200 drones, Zelensky said, describing the assault as targeting Kyiv and its surrounding region.

The strikes add to repeated attacks on energy infrastructure; Ukraine’s prime minister said Russia had carried out 2,147 such attacks since July 16.

Repair crews are working to restore power, but air raid alerts and the risk of further strikes are slowing them.

Ukraine also faces a shortage of U.S.-made Patriot interceptor missiles, which are used to defend against ballistic missiles.

Zelensky plans to expand anti-drone defences, including production and procurement of turrets he says have worked well against Russian drones.