Russia Is Preparing Attacks on Ukraine's Energy Sector — Shmyhal Reveals Details

Ukraine has received two documents from its intelligence agencies which, according to Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal, contain Russia’s plans for attacks on Ukraine’s energy sector this winter. The documents allegedly detail the targets for the strikes, as well as the number and types of weapons planned for use.

 

Ukraine has received two documents from the Russian side describing Russia’s preparations for a new campaign of attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. According to him, Ukrainian intelligence agencies received the materials last week. Shmyhal says the documents outline the Russian military’s strategy for the coming winter. “It shocked our partners, just as it did us, with its cynicism—such a cold, terrorist-like calculation of how to destroy our energy sector,” the minister stated.

According to Shmyhal, the documents do not focus solely on electricity. Russia is allegedly preparing comprehensive strikes against various elements of critical infrastructure. In particular, facilities that provide cities with heat and water may be at risk. The plans described by the minister also include strikes on power generation facilities and interconnectors—the lines and systems through which Ukraine receives electricity from Europe.

Separately, Shmyhal mentioned facilities related to electricity transmission across the Dnipro River. According to him, the documents are presented in the form of detailed tables. They allegedly specify how much weaponry is needed to destroy each specific facility and exactly what types of weapons can be used. “There are two large documents, very cold, very clearly laid out. They include tables listing the amount of weaponry required for each facility to destroy it,” Shmyhal said.

He added that the means listed in the documents include ballistic missiles, rocket-powered drones, and conventional strike drones. “Everything has been calculated; the ‘assignments’—as they call them—are laid out for each target. We understand how they will operate,” the minister said. According to Shmyhal, Russia has separate plans for major Ukrainian cities. He named Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa, as well as cities with a population of about 500,000 people.

In light of this information, Ukraine is preparing for the winter and possible new attacks on its energy infrastructure. Shmyhal reported that more than 200 reinforced concrete structures have already been erected over facilities that Russia has designated as priority targets. These are called shelters. They are designed to protect critical equipment from debris and direct impact.

Additional protection against drones is also being installed at energy facilities. Specifically, this includes pre-detonation screens and special nets designed to counter FPV drones. Another area of preparation involves building up stockpiles of equipment for the rapid repair of damaged infrastructure. Ukraine is working on this together with international partners.

According to Shmyhal, it is important to have the necessary transformers, grid components, and other equipment on hand in advance. This will allow for a faster restoration of power supply following potential attacks. At the same time, it is impossible to completely shield all energy facilities with physical defenses. The minister acknowledged that it will not be possible to protect Ukraine’s entire power grid with concrete structures. “Of course, air defense currently provides 90% protection. But with thousands of missiles and drones, even 10% is a serious blow,” Shmyhal said.

That is why, he said, preparations for winter involve more than just building shelters. Ukraine is also strengthening its air defense, stockpiling repair equipment, and preparing the power grid for potential damage. Shmyhal stated that this year, Ukraine is approaching the winter season differently than last year. He also emphasized that in the event of new attacks, Ukraine will continue to launch retaliatory strikes. “Our precision strikes will continue if the enemy attacks us. It will hurt Russia,” the minister said.

According to him, the coming winter could pose a serious challenge for Ukraine’s energy sector. At the same time, Shmyhal expressed confidence that Ukraine will be able to weather this period. “We say that this winter will be a test, but we will definitely get through it,” the minister concluded. Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal made these remarks during a televised marathon broadcast.