Ukraine is preparing for another difficult winter as Russian attacks continue to target the country’s energy, water and transport infrastructure, raising concerns about electricity shortages and difficult living conditions for civilians.
The latest attacks have increased pressure on Ukraine’s already strained air-defence systems. A report published today said the country is facing shortages of Patriot missiles, while the timing of further supplies from the United States and Germany remains uncertain.
The concern comes after Ukraine experienced serious power and heating problems during the previous winter. Temperatures fell as low as -20°C, while repeated attacks damaged power facilities and caused prolonged blackouts in several areas. Ukrainian authorities have since worked to repair damaged infrastructure and prepare emergency measures ahead of the new winter season.
Russia has increasingly focused its attacks on infrastructure that supports everyday life and the Ukrainian economy. Energy facilities, transport systems, water infrastructure, warehouses and food-production facilities have all been affected.
On Thursday, Russian forces launched a major attack on Pavlohrad, an important industrial and logistics centre in southeastern Ukraine. The strikes killed seven people and injured 76 others, including children. A petrol station in Kyiv and a Bunge sunflower-oil facility in Dnipro were also hit.
The attack on the Bunge facility killed two people and damaged one of Ukraine’s major food-processing plants. Ukrainian officials say attacks on economic infrastructure are becoming more frequent as Moscow attempts to weaken the country’s ability to maintain supplies and support its war effort.
The situation is also creating wider economic concerns. Damage to energy and transport infrastructure can affect businesses, food production and exports. Ukraine is a major supplier of agricultural commodities, and disruption to its ports and logistics networks could contribute to higher food prices internationally.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who is currently visiting Canada, has been seeking additional military and economic support. Canada announced plans for increased drone production and pledged hundreds of millions of dollars in air-defence support and loan guarantees to help Ukraine strengthen its energy security.
With the cold season approaching and the war continuing, Ukraine’s ability to protect its energy infrastructure and maintain essential services will be a major test in the coming months.
