"Logic is clear": key features of Russia’s new tactics targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure
global.espreso.tv
Mon, 20 Oct 2025 16:57:00 +0300

Kolisnyk spoke about this at the Energy that Sustains Ukraine forum, according to Espreso correspondent Kateryna Halko.According to him, Russia’s new tactic for striking energy facilities involves carrying out attacks in sequence — targeting transmission systems, distribution networks, and generation facilities in specific regions.“The enemy is changing its tactics. The attacks now occur in sequence: first on the transmission system, then on the distribution network, and finally on generation facilities in particular regions. At the same time, the enemy is striking gas production and transportation, understanding that gas-fired generation helps balance capacity and cover peak consumption during certain hours,” Kolisnyk said.He added that there are also consequences of attacks on hydropower generation — the second component of maneuverable generation.“The Russian logic is clear: to knock out electricity transmission and maneuvering capacities, that is, the ability to cover peak consumption,” the deputy minister explained.He also noted that the attack strategy has changed — drones and missiles are now directed at a single specific target.“The current attack strategy is that an entire ‘swarm’ of drones, along with various types of missiles, is aimed at one particular facility. This depletes air defenses, even if they are designated as top priority. As a result, we face attacks that damage the power system. That’s why backup connection schemes are essential,” Kolisnyk emphasized.He also noted that in 2022–2024, Russia has tried to disconnect and destabilize Ukraine’s power system, but is now focusing on regional attacks.“In fact, we can see this pattern shifting from one region to another: facilities are targeted sequentially — from generation to transmission to key consumers. The same applies to natural gas. We’ve observed that the enemy has begun attacking certain facilities responsible for distributing gas to specific populated areas. These sites are not strategic, but the enemy is testing the situation, trying to reduce gas transmission capacity to a particular key facility,” Kolisnyk emphasized.He reported on additional measures being taken to protect against attacks.“We are strengthening and improving existing protection systems, as physical defenses have proven crucial in safeguarding many facilities and reducing the impact of strikes,” the deputy minister assured.On October 13, Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged NATO to urgently provide Ukraine with air defense systems to protect its energy infrastructure.
Latest news
