Russian Attacks Disrupt Odesa Energy Facilities, Triggering Blackouts

Russia's overnight attack on energy facilities in Ukraine's Odesa region resulted in fires and blackouts. The strikes, targeting key infrastructure, affected several settlements, leaving thousands without electricity. Though power was restored to some customers, 90,000 remain in the dark. The government is implementing measures to save electricity.

Russia launched strikes on energy facilities in Ukraine's southern Odesa region overnight, igniting fires and causing widespread blackouts, according to local officials on Friday.

Governor Oleh Kiper reported via Telegram that the drone attack plunged several settlements, including crucial seaport areas, into darkness. This assault marks a continuation of Russia's intensified strategy against Ukraine's energy sector and infrastructure, as winter closes in and the conflict nears its fourth anniversary.

Ukraine's top energy provider, DTEK, confirmed that one of its substations and another unidentified facility endured damage. While the company restored electricity to 40,000 customers, 90,000 remain affected. In response, the Ukrainian government has approved measures aimed at conserving electricity amid these repeated outages.

(With inputs from agencies.)