At least 600,000 people in Ukraine are without electricity following missile and drone strikes by Russia, according to President Volodymyr Zelensky. He stated that critical energy infrastructure was targeted in Kyiv and the surrounding region, as well as in Kharkiv. This comes despite claims from US President Donald Trump that an energy ceasefire was in effect between Russia and Ukraine. Three fatalities were reported in Kyiv due to the strikes. Russia claimed its attacks focused on communications and energy facilities used by Ukraine's military.
Additionally, Zelensky's adviser, Serhiy Beskrestnov, reported that speed restrictions on the Starlink communications network have disrupted Ukrainian military operations. Beskrestnov stated that SpaceX implemented a speed limit on Starlink terminals, which has affected missions. He noted that Ukrainian troops were not informed of these changes, which were set at 100 mph (160 km/h), leading to operational disruptions.
A source from the Ukrainian defense ministry confirmed that restrictions on Starlink connectivity were detected, complicating various military operations. The Starlink system has been crucial for providing internet access to Ukrainian troops, enabling effective drone control against Russian targets. In February, Musk's decision to restrict Russian access to Starlink was noted to have hindered Moscow's military efforts.
Zelensky mentioned that the US had threatened to limit intelligence sharing if he did not agree to Trump's proposed energy ceasefire, a claim Trump denied. Ukraine's air force reported that Russia launched 39 ballistic and cruise missiles along with 128 drones overnight, with some intercepted. This marks the second consecutive night of missile strikes on Kyiv, coinciding with Zelensky's planned meeting with UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham to discuss air defense supplies.
The Russian defense ministry claimed to have shot down 902 Ukrainian drones over various regions, including Moscow and Crimea. Trump had previously announced an energy ceasefire, which Zelensky indicated Ukraine would adhere to if Russia reciprocated. However, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that Ukraine did not deserve a ceasefire, arguing it would allow Europe to supply Ukraine with more weapons. Russia's invasion of Ukraine began in 2022, with Moscow currently controlling about 20% of Ukrainian territory.