In the wake of one of the most devastating assaults on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure since the start of the full-scale invasion, millions of Ukrainians are now facing prolonged electricity shortages, heating outages, and water supply disruptions. The attack, which occurred overnight on November 7–8, 2025, targeted critical power generation facilities across the country, plunging large swaths of Ukraine into darkness just as winter begins to bite.

Scope of the Attack

Russia launched over 450 drones and 45 missiles, with Ukrainian air defenses intercepting the majority — yet the damage was still catastrophic. The national energy provider reported that power generation capacity was reduced to “zero”, forcing emergency outages in nearly every oblast.

The hardest-hit regions include:

• Dnipro: A drone strike hit residential areas and energy facilities, causing widespread blackouts.
• Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia: Already vulnerable due to proximity to the front lines, these regions now face up to 16-hour power cuts daily.
• Kyiv and surrounding oblasts: Emergency outages have been introduced, with rolling blackouts affecting hospitals, schools, and public transport.

Humanitarian Impact

The timing of this attack is especially dire. With temperatures dropping and heating systems offline, millions risk exposure to freezing conditions. Water purification and distribution systems are also compromised, raising concerns about public health and sanitation.

Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga condemned the strikes, stating they “deprived communities of power, water, and heating, destroyed critical infrastructure, and damaged railway networks”.

What International Relief Organizations Can Do

To mitigate the crisis, international organizations must act swiftly and decisively. Key actions include:

• Deploy emergency generators: Hospitals, shelters, and water treatment plants urgently need backup power.
• Supply fuel and heating equipment: Diesel, propane heaters, and thermal blankets are essential for survival.
• Support decentralized energy solutions: Solar panels, battery storage, and microgrids can provide resilience against future attacks.
• Fund infrastructure repair teams: Ukrainian engineers and emergency workers need tools, materials, and protective gear to restore damaged facilities.
• Coordinate logistics for aid delivery: With rail networks disrupted, alternative transport routes must be secured to reach isolated communities.

How You Can Help

Angels for Ukraine is mobilizing resources to support frontline responders and vulnerable families. Donations will go toward:

• Food parcels for the first responders;
• Blackout study kits for children;
• Generators and portable power stations for medical and social institutions in remote communities.

Together, we can help Ukraine endure this crisis and rebuild stronger. Every contribution counts — now more than ever.

Photo: State Emergency Service in Dnipropetrovska Oblast