NATO fighter jets were deployed in response to a severe missile and drone attack by Vladimir Putin’s forces in Ukraine. The onslaught caused electricity and heating disruptions as Russia launched 51 missiles and 653 drones targeting civilian infrastructure amid freezing temperatures. Notably, a major thermal power plant in Kryvyi Rih, Volodymr Zelensky’s hometown, was hit directly, causing damage to homes.
Key facilities across Ukraine, including the Bila Tserkva power plant, the Fastiv railway station, and Vyshhorod, suffered significant damage in the relentless attacks. The strikes, estimated to cost £130 million and featuring lethal hypersonic Kinzhals, were aimed at pressuring Ukrainians into accepting a harmful peace agreement proposed by Putin.
Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted 585 drones, 29 cruise missiles, and one ballistic missile during the intense blitz, which involved strategic bomber aircraft. The scale of the attacks prompted NATO member Poland to scramble warplanes to defend against potential threats to alliance territory.
In the midst of the chaos, the US and Ukraine engaged in talks for a peace deal, with representatives including Donald Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Despite diplomatic efforts, Putin remained focused on weakening Ukraine. Tragically, a 12-year-old boy in Dnipro became the latest victim of the Russian strikes, adding to the toll of civilian casualties in the long-standing conflict.
Meanwhile, Ukraine retaliated by targeting a crucial oil refinery in Russia without causing harm to civilians. The Ryazan refinery, vital to Moscow’s oil supply, was set ablaze in the attack. Ukrainian drones have repeatedly struck the refinery this year, underscoring the ongoing tensions between the two nations.
As the conflict persists, Ukraine’s military commander acknowledged the challenges ahead but vowed to continue the fight against Russian aggression. General Oleksandr Syrskyi expressed hope for continued support from the US and European allies in their struggle against the aggressor.