by Stefan J. Bos, Worthy News Europe Bureau Chief
KYIV/BUDAPEST (Worthy News) – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says Russia is deliberately targeting Ukraine’s nuclear-linked energy system in an effort to freeze the country into submission by crippling its power grid, as millions endure another harsh winter amid relentless Russian strikes that have killed and injured civilians.
Ukraine’s president said Kyiv sees no indication that Moscow is willing to end the war or comply with any agreements.
Speaking on Sunday, Zelenskyy explained that Ukrainian intelligence has clear evidence that Russia is preparing new attacks on the energy sector, including infrastructure connected to nuclear power plants.
He warned that each strike during winter not only leaves civilians without heat and electricity, but also undermines diplomatic efforts led by key partners—particularly the United States—to bring the war to an end.
Zelenskyy spoke after a briefing from Ukraine’s new chief of defence intelligence, Oleh Ivashchenko, following leadership changes in Kyiv.
He confirmed that former intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov is now part of a Ukrainian delegation in the United States, tasked with advancing stalled peace efforts.
MOUNTING FRUSTRATION
But the president acknowledged mounting frustration.
“The main task for the Ukrainian delegation is to provide real information about what is happening—about the consequences of the Russian strikes, including this terror and the discrediting of the diplomatic process,” Zelenskyy said.
He warned that people are “losing faith in diplomacy,” as Russian attacks continue to worsen even the limited opportunities for dialogue that once existed. “The American side must understand this.”
Despite these setbacks, Zelenskyy said negotiators are working on security guarantees and economic recovery plans. If approved, a deal with Washington could be signed next week at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
However, Russia has given no indication it would accept any settlement without Ukraine surrendering the entire Donbas region.
Additionally, authorities report deadly strikes across eastern Ukraine.
INFRASTRUCTURE DAMAGED
In Kharkiv Oblast, attacks reportedly damaged critical infrastructure, threatening heat and power supplies.
Also, in the Sumy region, officials said women and a child were wounded and homes destroyed.
Ukraine’s energy minister said the suffering is compounded by indications that no power plant has remained untouched by Russian strikes.
Repairs continue around the clock, aided by foreign support—including new energy equipment from Lithuania.
For now, Ukraine braces for another blood-stained winter.
Copyright 1999-2026 Worthy News. This article was originally published on Worthy News and was reproduced with permission.
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