During the massive strikes on the energy system, Russian aggressors are utilizing all types of weaponry at their disposal, except for nuclear arms. In fact, the energy system is subjected to shelling of varying intensity almost daily, as reported by Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko.
"Today, everything they have is targeting the energy sector, except for nuclear weapons," he stated during a meeting at the European Business Association on Wednesday.
According to him, since March 22, 2024, when the shelling of the energy system became a regular occurrence last year, the number of massive attacks has already reached 15. Some of the most powerful strikes occurred on August 26, 2024, when the invaders launched 236 missiles and drones simultaneously, and on December 13, when approximately 300 aerial targets were released.
He explained that such mass bombardments differ from daily attacks in terms of complexity and the amount of weaponry used by the Russian Federation.
At the same time, the minister emphasized that there is no economic rationale behind these mass strikes, as some attacks have cost the military an estimated $1.3 billion.
"The enemy does not consider costs. In 2022-2023, they primarily used 'Shaheds' to destroy, for example, a transformer. Comparing the cost of a 'Shahed' to that of a transformer makes it clear that this is, evidently, an economically justified strike. Today, the cost of an attack, recalling August 2024, is $1.3 billion for a single instance," described the situation the Minister of Energy.
He also added that over the past year, approximately 1,700 units of missiles and drones were used against the energy sector, with about 950 used just from November 17 to today.
Furthermore, Halushchenko highlighted that the integrity and stable operation of the energy system are ensured by the professionalism and dedication of energy workers, who can swiftly repair damages despite the risks to their lives, especially when fixing equipment under voltage and pressure.
Responding to a question about the forecast for 2025, the Minister of Energy noted that the energy sector will withstand any challenges and that, with the help of the Armed Forces, it will be possible to avoid severe consequences even from mass strikes.
As reported, Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko, in a brief interview with Interfax-Ukraine on February 4, noted that Russian shelling significantly impacts Ukrainian gas production, but this is temporary, as he stated, "we know how to handle this."
The interview is available on the agency's website via the following link: https://interfax.com.ua/news/interview/1045745.html