Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy responded to Russia's potential actions aimed at damaging the energy system during the autumn and winter seasons. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
Zelenskiy emphasized that if Moscow attempts to cause a complete power outage in Ukraine's capital Kyiv, a similar situation could occur in Russia's own capital, Moscow. The Ukrainian leader said at a briefing with journalists: “If Kyiv is threatened with a blackout, the Kremlin must understand this well, because a blackout in Moscow is also not out of the question.” Zelenskiy stressed that there is no place for diplomatic leniency against Russia's intimidation policy.
In his opinion, “when Russians threaten, they should not be spoken to cautiously. Responding to the uncultured with culture is not the right way in rhetoric, on the battlefield, or in political steps.” Additionally, the Ukrainian president stated that Russia is not the first to attack civilized states, but this is neither a weakness nor a lack of strength.
In August, the Russian Armed Forces intensified attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. According to the Ukrainian Ministry of Energy, Russia is pursuing a policy of deliberately destroying energy facilities as the heating season approaches.
In just ten days in August, 20 strategic facilities, including electric and heat stations as well as oil refineries, were struck. Furthermore, Ukrainian military forces have been striking Russian oil refineries using drones.
As a result of these attacks, some enterprises have partially or completely ceased operations, leading to fuel shortages and price increases. Zelenskiy's firm stance once again demonstrated Ukraine's readiness to take symmetrical measures against Russia's increasing pressure and attacks.
Thus, Ukraine declares its determination to protect its energy system and ensure national security.
