Russia has launched a “large-scale attack” on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, Ukraine’s energy minister said, after explosions were reported in several cities.
Herman Halushchenko said on Facebook that attacks on energy facilities were “taking place all over Ukraine” and that emergency power outages were occurring and people were urged to evacuate.
On Thursday morning, the Ukrainian Air Force issued a nationwide air strike warning “due to the threat of missile hazards.”
In recent days, Russia has taken some steps. 1,500 airstrikes In Ukraine, it hit about half of the country’s territory, according to authorities.
The Air Force issued additional warnings about rockets heading to several parts of the country, including Kyiv, Rivne, Vinnytsia, Kropyvnytskyi, Balta and Mykolaiv.
Kharkiv Mayor Igor Terekhov said there had been shelling of civilian areas in the city, while Lutsk Mayor Ihor Polishchuk said he heard several explosions. Electricity was cut off in some parts of the city.
Local journalist Zerkalo Tyzhnya reported that explosions were heard in the main port city of Odessa, and regional governor Oleg Kiper urged residents to stay safe.
Authorities in the Sumy and Volyn regions also reported strikes.
