Zelenskyy Details 365-Weapon Russian Strike on Ukraine Power Grid
The overnight barrage targeted energy infrastructure across nine regions as air raid warnings remained active.
By Emmanuel Obasi ·
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Russia launched a massive aerial offensive against Ukraine during the night of November 2 and 3. The attack included 17 ballistic missiles, 59 cruise missiles, and 289 attack drones. Air raid warnings stayed in effect after the initial waves, with officials warning of further threats.
The strikes primarily targeted critical infrastructure. Energy facilities, power generation plants, and substations were hit across several regions. The most affected oblasts were Odesa, Cherkasy, Zhytomyr, Vinnytsia, Kharkiv, Dnipro, Chernivtsi, Chernihiv, and Rivne.
Emergency and rolling blackouts have continued in numerous cities and communities following the impact. Zelenskyy described the operation as a complex, large-scale effort aimed at disrupting essential services. Ukrainian air defense forces downed 309 of the incoming projectiles during the incident.
Zelenskyy pointed out that the assault occurred on the day of the US congressional elections. He stated that Russian forces likely believed the American public would not notice the signal sent by such a large-scale attack. The president urged that Ukraine be helped to defend its skies to prevent endless missile strikes.
He called for peace to be built honestly and reliably, noting that America has the capacity to achieve this. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to those who did not remain silent about the attack and who continue to support Ukraine's defense.
The overnight barrage was part of a sustained campaign of air attacks. Ukraine's Air Force reported that in October 2026, Russia launched more than 4,000 jet-powered drones. That same month saw approximately 150 ballistic missiles and 80 cruise and air-launched missiles fired at Ukrainian territory.
The high volume of ordnance reflects the intensity of the aerial conflict in the months leading up to the current assault. The continued targeting of energy infrastructure has placed strain on Ukraine's power grid. Blackouts affecting many areas show Russia's strategy to disrupt essential services in regions like Odesa and Kharkiv.
The scale of the November 2 and 3 attack involved nearly 360 projectiles and missiles. It represents one of the larger assaults in recent weeks. The coordination of ballistic, cruise, and drone attacks required a multifaceted air defense response.
As Ukraine deals with the aftermath, the focus remains on restoring power and reinforcing defenses. The events of November 2 and 3 highlight the ongoing challenges faced by Ukraine in maintaining its infrastructure and security.
