Photo: Zelensky
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on X that Russia launched a large-scale attack on Ukraine on the night of December 23–24, targeting energy facilities and civilian infrastructure.
Over 650 drones, including a significant number of “shaheds,” and more than 30 missiles were reportedly deployed, prompting widespread air raid alerts across most regions of the country.
The strikes have resulted in civilian casualties. In the Kyiv region, a woman was killed after a Russian drone strike.
A person was pronounced dead in the Khmelnytskyi region, while in Zhytomyr, a four-year-old child died when a drone hit a residential building. Zelensky offered condolences to the families affected.
Thirteen regions of Ukraine have reported attacks, although air defense systems intercepted a substantial number of the drones and missiles.
Authorities confirmed that repair crews and energy workers are on the ground restoring essential services, including power and infrastructure.
Photo: Zelensky
Zelensky characterized the strikes as a deliberate attack on civilians during the Christmas period, coinciding with ongoing negotiations aimed at ending the war.
He called on the international community to intensify pressure on Russia to halt hostilities and ensure Ukrainian security.
The Ukrainian Air Force is expected to release detailed reports once all strike data has been fully compiled.
Zelensky emphasized that operations to defend life, maintain energy supply, and provide security remain continuous, irrespective of holidays, highlighting the country’s ongoing commitment to protecting civilians.