Russia has announced its willingness to agree to a limited cease-fire that would halt attacks on energy infrastructure, a proposal that Kyiv is open to but has not yet officially endorsed. This potential agreement signifies the first significant step toward de-escalating tensions since the initial full-scale invasion more than three years ago. However, trust issues and ongoing hostilities highlight the fragility of any potential deal, as both Ukraine and Russia accused each other of attacking energy facilities the day after the agreement’s announcement.

The conflict has seen Russia systematically targeting Ukraine’s energy grid in an attempt to weaken the country’s military capabilities by complicating civilian life. Conversely, Ukraine is targeting Russia’s oil industry to both cut funding for Russia’s military operations and to create psychological impacts through large-scale fires at critical facilities.

Ukraine has responded to Russia’s strategy by launching drone attacks deep into Russian territory, aiming to disrupt oil flows and supplies, which are critical for revenue and military fuel. Despite the significant disruption to Russian oil infrastructure and capacities, Russia has managed to partially mend the damages inflicted.

Conversely, the attacks from Russia, using drones and missiles, have led to extensive damage to Ukraine’s energy sector, costing an estimated $14.6 billion. This has necessitated rolling blackouts and difficulty accessing basic amenities like water. Nevertheless, Ukraine’s resilience, supported by Western air defenses, round-the-clock repair works, and the ingenuity of its citizens, has allowed the country to endure the ongoing assaults on its energy infrastructure. The three operational nuclear power stations remain a critical component of Ukraine’s energy strategy that Russia has avoided targeting, contributing significantly to the country’s electricity needs.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/19/world/europe/ukraine-russia-energy-infrastructure.html