The Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights condemned Russia's intensified attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure on 14 January, citing newly published UN data showing 2025 was the deadliest year for civilians in Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion began.
The UN documented 2,514 civilians killed and 12,142 injured in 2025—a 31% increase in deaths compared to 2024 and the highest toll since the first year of the war. Commissioner Michael O'Flaherty called the systematic destruction of energy infrastructure during freezing winter temperatures an assault on the physical and mental health, dignity, and safety of the Ukrainian people.
Daily strikes hamper repair efforts
In recent weeks, Russia has launched daily waves of missiles and drones against power plants, substations, and heating facilities across Ukraine. Large-scale strikes have hit Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia, Kyiv, Lviv, Odesa, Chernihiv, and Kharkiv oblasts, leaving hundreds of thousands without power during temperatures dropping to -15°C.
"These daily strikes are severely hindering repair efforts and leaving millions of civilians without essential services amid freezing winter temperatures," O'Flaherty stated.
The left-bank part of Dnipro city has remained without electricity for five consecutive days. Hospitals, heating systems, and water supply networks have been disrupted across multiple regions. Emergency power cuts continue nationwide as Ukraine's energy system operates under constant pressure.
ICC warrants for energy infrastructure attacks
O'Flaherty recalled that the International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Russian military commanders concerning attacks on Ukraine's electricity infrastructure. Lieutenant General Sergei Kobylash and Admiral Viktor Sokolov face charges for directing attacks on civilian objects and crimes against humanity.
"Attacks against Ukrainian civilian infrastructure must cease immediately, and those responsible must be held to account," O'Flaherty said.
The commissioner drew particular attention to those most at risk: older persons, people with disabilities, the sick, and families with children who face life-threatening risks from exposure to extreme cold.
Call for urgent humanitarian support
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O'Flaherty urged Council of Europe member states to intensify humanitarian funding, including support for emergency housing, warming centers, generators, alternative energy sources, and essential supplies such as food and warm clothing.
He commended Ukrainian authorities and emergency services for their efforts to restore conditions necessary for civilian life while acknowledging that resilience alone is not enough.
The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission previously reported that drone attacks by Russian forces surged 120% in 2025 compared to 2024, killing 577 civilians and wounding more than 3,000. Long-range weapon strikes increased 65%, killing 682 people and wounding nearly 4,500.
