Russian attacks have disabled the Kherson Combined Heat and Power Plant. Tens of thousands of residents, already under constant fire from Russian forces and targeted by FPV “human safari” drones piloted in real time, are now without heat, says Serhii Koretskyi, chairman of Naftogaz Ukraine.
These attacks underscore Ukraine’s urgent need for additional air defense systems, particularly Patriot complexes and interceptor missiles.
Kherson was captured by Russian forces in 2022 but was later liberated by Ukrainian troops. As of 2025, nearly 72% of the region remains under Russian control.
Ukrainian forces hold the right-bank part of the region, including the city of Kherson, while a significant portion, especially the left bank, remains occupied.
“Over the past day, Russian forces deliberately targeted the Kherson CHP with artillery and drones. It was the only source of heat for tens of thousands of city residents,” Naftogaz reports.
Ukraine is trying to repair, but Russia is deliberately striking again and again
According to Koretskyi, Russian troops aim to prevent energy workers from restoring equipment.
He emphasizes that the heating situation in Kherson is currently one of the most critical in the country.
“Together with local authorities, we are doing everything possible to provide alternative sources of heat. Measures are being taken to ensure a backup supply,” Koretskyi adds.
256 aerial attacks on Ukrainian energy facilities
A recent analysis by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) notes that Russia’s long-range strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure are aimed at dividing the country’s power system into isolated “islands,” cut off from production.
Following the latest massive attacks, Ukraine’s energy system is operating under a state of emergency.
Since the full-scale war in 2022, Russia has systematically targeted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. With the onset of autumn 2025, attacks on Ukraine’s energy sector intensified.
The Security Service of Ukraine classifies Russia’s strikes on energy infrastructure as crimes against humanity. According to the SBU, at least 256 aerial attacks on Ukrainian energy facilities and heating systems have been documented since the start of this year’s heating season.
These attacks underscore Ukraine’s urgent need for additional air defense systems, particularly Patriot complexes and interceptor missiles.
