Christmas under the bombs in Ukraine, where Russia launched a massive air strike with missiles and drones overnight targeting cities across the country. Over 70 missiles and more than 100 drones were launched, Kiev's defense system shot down about 50 missiles and "a significant number" of drones.

In particular, a massive attack was launched on the eastern city of Kharkiv, but several explosions were reported especially in Dnipro and Kremenchuk. In several cities there are interruptions in the supply of electricity.

Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko said this morning that Russia is bombing the country's energy sector: "The enemy is again massively attacking the energy sector," Galushchenko wrote on Telegram. "The transmission system operator is taking necessary measures to limit consumption and minimize the negative consequences."

"Every massive Russian attack requires time to prepare. It is never a spontaneous decision. It is a deliberate choice, not only of targets but also of times and dates. Today, Putin deliberately chose Christmas for an attack. What could be more inhumane?", Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote in X. "I thank all those who work for the country, who are on combat duty, who protect our skies. Russian evil will not break Ukraine and will not ruin Christmas," Zelensky concluded.

Yesterday, on the eve of the event, Zelensky spoke with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew: "I expressed my gratitude for his spiritual support for Ukraine. We are doing everything possible to make 2025 a year of just and lasting peace for our country and for the entire world."

(Unioneonline/L)