The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission has presented a new report on the attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and the impact of these attacks on the civilian population. According to the head of the mission, Danielle Belle, from March to August 2024, the Russian Armed Forces carried out nine massive attacks on Ukraine’s energy facilities. As a result, numerous power plants were destroyed or damaged, causing prolonged interruptions in the supply of electricity, water, and heat to millions of Ukrainians. These attacks were a significant blow to the key systems that support the country’s vital functions.
The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission notes that the impact of these attacks is particularly severe among vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, people with disabilities and low-income families. During the cold season, this situation may worsen further, as the need for electricity increases significantly and infrastructure will take years to fully recover.
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Despite the efforts of the Ukrainian authorities and humanitarian organisations, the restoration of the energy system faces numerous challenges. Daily power outages have become the norm in many regions, which not only complicates the daily lives of Ukrainians but also has a significant impact on education, healthcare, and the economy.
According to the UN, Russia’s attacks were well-coordinated and systematic. They have caused widespread destruction, and there are reasons to believe that such actions violate international humanitarian law. Fighting on the frontline continues to threaten Ukraine’s energy security, and shelling of infrastructure could have lasting consequences for civilians.
So, as winter approaches, Ukraine is preparing for new challenges related to possible power cuts, heat, and water shortages.
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