Russia unleashed a massive missile attack on Ukraine’s electrical grid in the early hours of January 15, firing 43 missiles and more than 70 drones. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted 30 missiles and 47 drones, but heavy damage to the grid led to widespread power losses throughout the country.
The attack marked the largest-scale assault on Kyiv’s energy grid since December 25, 2024. Relentless attacks have occurred since the early autumn of 2022 as Russia tries to compel Ukraine to make concessions.
In other developments, a Russian drone attack in the Kherson region killed a man and wounded another resident. Systematic shelling in the Donetsk region has also resulted in civilian casualties over the past three days.
Meanwhile, nearly 450,000 Ukrainians left the country in 2024, bringing the total number of permanent departures during the war to nearly 3 million. Ukraine is facing mounting demographic and economic challenges due to labor shortages and rebuilding efforts.
The world witnessed a significant agreement between Ukraine and the UK, solidifying a century-long partnership. The deal includes London’s commitment to deliver at least $3.6 billion annually in military aid, funded by frozen Russian assets.
However, new US sanctions targeting Russia’s energy sector could disrupt up to 15% of Moscow’s oil exports. Russia’s National Wealth Fund depleted nearly a quarter of its reserves in 2024 due to ongoing war expenses.
In the culture front, Ukrainian leaders will participate in the World Economic Forum in Davos, focusing on Ukraine’s natural resources and rebuilding efforts. The Victor Pinchuk Foundation is launching an initiative highlighting the global implications of Ukraine’s resistance against Russian aggression.
Ukrainian photographer Boris Mikhailov will have his solo exhibition “Refracted Times” at the Marian Goodman Gallery in New York from January 10 to February 22, showcasing innovative works blending photography, cinema, and writing. An exhibition on Ukrainian resilience through graphic design, “Slava Ukraini! Glory to Ukraine!”, will be held at Connecticut College’s Cummings Arts Center Galleries from January 21 to March 7.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/katyasoldak/2025/01/17/friday-january-17-russias-war-on-ukraine-news-and-information-from-ukraine