**Russia May Target Ukraine’s Energy Grid Ahead of Easter, President Zelensky Warns**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has sounded a warning that Russia may launch new attacks on the country’s energy infrastructure before and after Orthodox Easter, celebrated on April 20. Citing information from Ukrainian intelligence, Zelensky said that Ukraine was prepared to defend its power system.
Despite fears of Russian aggression, Ukraine managed to get through the winter without blackouts, thanks in part to the hard work of energy workers. However, Russia has repeatedly targeted Ukraine’s energy facilities, launching 13 mass attacks with drones and missiles throughout 2024. These attacks forced Ukraine to introduce emergency blackouts across the country.
The situation is particularly concerning ahead of Easter, a holiday that brings many Ukrainians together. Zelensky urged calm but warned that Russia’s intentions were not clear: “We know what Russia is preparing for. Now, ahead of Easter, and after it, new Russian attacks are possible.”
**Russia Continues to Violate Ceasefire**
The recent partial ceasefire on strikes against energy facilities, announced by Russia and Ukraine following technical consultations with the US in Riyadh, has been repeatedly violated by Moscow. According to Ukrainian officials, Russia has breached the agreement more than 30 times since its announcement on March 25.
Ukraine’s Energy Minister, Herman Halushchenko, praised the country’s resilience in the face of Russian aggression: “We will continue to defend our country, our energy sector.”
**Global Response to Russia’s Aggression**
The international community continues to condemn Russia’s actions. The European Union has warned that Serbia may be blocked from joining the EU if its president travels to Moscow for Putin’s May 9 Victory Parade.
Meanwhile, the UK has expressed support for a potential German decision to send Taurus missiles to Ukraine. The move is seen as a response to Russia’s ongoing aggression and a bid to strengthen Kyiv’s defenses.
**Russian War Efforts**
Russia continues to target Ukrainian cities and villages with drones, missiles, glide bombs, and artillery, resulting in heavy civilian casualties. According to Air Force officials, Russia launched 75 drones, including Shahed-type drones, two Iskander-M ballistic missiles, and three S-300/400 anti-aircraft guided missiles.
As the war drags on, Russian forces have suffered significant losses, with over 101,000 military personnel killed in Ukraine, according to estimates from Mediazona and the BBC Russian service.
