Russia continued a series of massive attacks on energy facilities in the western regions of Ukraine. On the night of February 7, several regions were hit, leading to damage to generating capacities and widespread power supply restrictions.
Kiev views the events as systematic pressure on civilian infrastructure during the winter period. Simultaneously, diplomatic struggles around the future of key energy facilities are intensifying.
Geography of the Night Strike
The attack covered Vinnytsia region, Khmelnytskyi region, Ternopil region, Lviv region, and Ivano-Frankivsk region.
It involved a combined use of various means of attack. Local authorities reported on air defense operations and clarified the consequences after the alerts were lifted.
The main targets were nodes ensuring the stability of the entire energy system of the country.
Which Stations Were Affected
There were reports of damage to thermal power plants in Dobrotvir and Burshtyn. These are important elements for power distribution for a significant part of the territory.
Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal stated that substations and ultra-high voltage lines of 750 and 330 kV were also hit.
According to him, these components form the backbone of the national grid. After the attack, several rounds of emergency shutdowns were introduced across the country, and for some regions β separate, stricter schedules.
The operator Ukrenergo sought urgent support from neighbors. An emergency import request was sent to Poland.
As a result of the damage, nuclear power plants temporarily reduced generation β a standard measure to stabilize the system’s balance.
The Frost Factor
The situation is complicated by the weather. In the coming days, temperatures in the west and north of the country are forecasted to drop to minus four degrees.
For the energy system, this means increased consumption at a time when reserves are decreasing.
Any additional loss of capacity automatically expands the zones of restrictions.
Reaction of Poland and NATO
Amid the missile threat, Poland temporarily closed its airspace for civilian flights in the east. The restrictions affected the airports of Rzeszow and Lublin.
The authorities explained that the decision was necessary for the priority operation of alliance military aviation.
The operational command emphasized: no border violations were recorded. Gratitude was separately expressed to NATO partners, including German crews who participated in patrolling.
Parallel Track β Struggle for Zaporizhzhia NPP
On the same day, Reuters reported disagreements over a possible management model for the plant within future agreements.
According to the agency, Moscow did not support Washington’s proposal to transfer control to Ukraine with the participation of the US as an electricity distribution operator.
The Russian side insists on maintaining influence and allows for the option of commercial supplies to Kiev. Ukraine rejects the format of joint management with the occupation administration.
Why Energy Became a Central Issue in Negotiations
Electricity is not only about the economy but also humanitarian resilience. The operation of the network affects heat, water, transport, and communication.
Therefore, each new strike automatically shifts to the diplomatic plane.
Sources communicating with the editorial team of NAnews β News of Israel | Nikk.Agency note: the topic of infrastructure is becoming one of the key elements in discussions about a future ceasefire.
Without understanding who and how controls the production and distribution of energy, no security model can work.
The parties remain in their previous positions.
And winter continues.