Russia's systematic bombardment of Ukraine's energy infrastructure is intended to inflict harm on civilians and amounts to a crime against humanity, U.N. investigators stated. As winter temperatures dropped below zero, Russian drones and missiles knocked out power generation facilities, cutting off heat, lighting, and water supply. Millions of people were left without electricity for hours or even days in the worst-affected areas.
While Russia claims targets served military or dual use, investigators noted commanders knew the impact on local inhabitants. The attacks intensified as temperatures dropped, demonstrating intent to inflict harm. The report documents deaths from cold in homes and hospitals, with medical workers treating cold-related trauma.
Power cuts took a psychological toll, causing insomnia, exhaustion, and depression. One Kyiv resident described the fear of not waking up as torture. Ukraine has also attacked energy infrastructure, though investigators lacked access to examine those reports.
Earlier this month, President Trump announced an energy cease-fire aimed at ending Ukrainian attacks on Russian refineries, but Russia's bombardment continued uninterrupted. Now winter approaches once more, raising serious concerns for civilian lives and health. The panel also investigated Russia's treatment of foreign nationals recruited through deception to serve in the Russian military, finding people from 29 countries across Latin America, Africa, and Asia were forced to sign contracts after having their passports taken.
Source: New York Times Top Stories · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing