Live: Russian missiles pound Kyiv ahead of Ukraine war anniversary
France 24
by FRANCE 24February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Russian forces launched a significant attack on Kyiv and other key locations in Ukraine, targeting energy infrastructure with missiles and drones. The strikes occurred just two days before the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, coinciding with similar attacks across Odesa and central regions. This escalation underscores the ongoing intensity of the conflict.
The attacks focused heavily on power stations, transmission systems, and gas facilities, which are critical to Ukraine's ability to sustain resistance against Russian forces. According to Ukrainian officials, these strikes aim to undermine the country's defense capabilities by crippling its energy sector. Such tactics have been a consistent strategy in Russia's broader war effort since February 2022.
At least one person was injured in Kyiv, and damage was reported across multiple districts, affecting over a dozen homes. Odesa Governor Oleh Kiper noted that fires caused by drone attacks on the region's energy infrastructure had been extinguished, but the impact on daily life remains significant. This reflects Russia's ongoing campaign to disrupt essential services, which has become a defining feature of its military strategy in Ukraine.
The sustained targeting of Ukraine's energy grid highlights the broader context of the conflict. By focusing on infrastructure, Russia seeks to create widespread disruption and weaken Ukraine's resilience. This approach not only affects utilities but also impacts economic stability and civilian morale.
For readers interested in global security and world politics, this escalation underscores the evolving nature of modern warfare, where strategic targeting of critical infrastructure plays a pivotal role. The situation in Ukraine serves as a case study in how prolonged conflict can escalate, with significant implications for international relations and energy security.
The attacks also raise concerns about regional stability and potential escalations beyond Ukraine's borders. As the conflict approaches its fourth year, such developments are likely to shape ongoing diplomatic efforts and international responses to the crisis.
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Originally published on France 24 on 2/22/2026