Russia and Ukraine are locked in a propaganda war, each side accusing the other of attacking key energy infrastructure. A major Russian gas facility near the Ukrainian border was set ablaze overnight, sparking accusations that Ukraine had launched the attack.
The blaze, which caught fire at the Sudzha gas metering station, is believed to have damaged pipelines and equipment. The site, once a crucial transit point for Russian gas to Europe, ceased operations in January after Ukraine refused to renew the transit agreement.
Ukrainian officials claim that Russia had repeatedly shelled the station as it counterattacked Ukrainian troops in the area, while Russian authorities say that Ukraine deliberately blew up the facility as its military retreated. The conflict highlights the deep mistrust between the two nations and raises concerns about a potential disruption to Russian gas exports.
The situation has led to tensions ahead of planned talks on Monday, where U.S. mediators will try to hammer out the details of a 30-day cease-fire on strikes against energy infrastructure. President Volodymyr Zelensky’s team plans to submit a list of infrastructure facilities that could be covered by the cease-fire.
Experts warn that damage from the attack could take several months to repair, and that it may have long-term consequences for Russian gas exports if left unchecked.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/21/world/europe/russia-ukraine-power-energy-grid.html