Russia's attack called out as 'state-sponsored terrorism'

A large-scale Russian missile and drone attack targeting Ukraine’s energy system on Christmas Day has been condemned as “inhumane” by president Volodymyr Zelensky.

- ANDY GREGORY

Half a million people were left without heating in Kharkiv in temperatures just a few degrees above freezing, as blackouts were reported in Kyiv and other regions. At least one person was killed and six others wounded in the attack, described by one Ukrainian energy chief as Vladimir Putin’s “state-sponsored terrorism”.

The massive attack came as Ukraine officially celebrated Christmas on 25 December for only the second time, in a move to reduce the influence of the Russian Orthodox Church, which celebrates on 7 January. The Ukrainian president said more than 70 missiles, including ballistic missiles, and over 100 attack drones were used to strike Ukraine’s power sources. Nearly 60 missiles and 54 drones were shot down, according to Ukraine’s air force.

“Every massive Russian strike requires time for preparation. It is never a spontaneous decision. It is a deliberate choice – not only of targets but also of timing and date. Putin deliberately chose Christmas for an attack. What could be more inhumane?” Mr Zelensky said. “The targets are our energy infrastructure. They continue to fight for a blackout in Ukraine.”

Mr Zelensky’s comments were echoed by prime minister Sir Keir Starmer, who paid tribute “to the resilience of the Ukrainian people ... in the face of further drone and missile attacks from Putin’s bloody and brutal war machine, with no respite, even at Christmas.” The prime minister added: “As we go into the new year, it remains vital that we redouble our resolve to place Ukraine in the strongest possible position to end Russia’s illegal aggression against the Ukrainian people.”