Russia ends week-long pause with attack on Ukraine energy sites

Russian forces launched a large aerial attack on Ukrainian power plants and energy infrastructure during extreme cold, leaving over 1,000 residential buildings in Kyiv without heating; negotiators from Russia and Ukraine are due to meet in Abu Dhabi later this week.

Russian forces launched a large aerial attack on Ukraine overnight, officials reported. The strikes targeted power plants and other energy infrastructure in Kyiv and several other locations. Temperatures fell to around minus 20C and many residents were left without heating. The attack followed the expiry of an energy truce and comes ahead of planned talks in Abu Dhabi. Key reported facts: - Ukrainian officials said more than 70 missiles and about 450 drones were fired during the assault. - Over 1,000 residential buildings in Kyiv were reported without heating and some energy facilities were damaged, including a Kharkiv power plant described as beyond repair. - Ukraine reported that its air defences intercepted part of the attack and that several people were injured. - Negotiators from Russia and Ukraine are due to meet in Abu Dhabi later this week, with the discussions coordinated by the United States. Summary: The reported strikes damaged energy infrastructure and left many homes without heating during severe winter conditions, affecting repair efforts and daily life. Officials say the attack occurred after an agreed pause ended and ahead of scheduled talks; further developments are undetermined at this time.