Russia’s campaign to break down Ukraine’s unified energy system within the past winter period has “highly likely failed”, British defence chiefs said.
In its latest intelligence update, the Ministry of Defence says large-scale long-range attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure have become rare since early March 2023.
The report goes on to say that Ukraine’s energy situation “will likely improve” with the arrival of warmer weather.
After the invasion stalled, Russia resorted to targeting key energy infrastructure sites with the United Nations claiming 50 per cent of the network had been destroyed late last year.
The MoD adds: “Ukraine’s network operating companies continue to source replacement transformers and other critical components. Transporting and installing these components is a major logistical challenge, especially high voltage transformers which weigh at least 100 tonnes.
“Ukraine’s energy situation will likely improve with the arrival of warmer weather. Planning and preparations for next winter have likely already begun.”
It comes after British defence chiefs warned that Russia has advanced into the centre of Bakhmut as the months-long battle in the eastern Ukrainian city reaches a critical moment.
Russian forces have seized the west bank of the Bakhmutka river, endangering a key Ukraine supply route
After a slow advance, Russian forces “have regained some momentum” in recent days, the MoD added.
“Russia has made further gains and has now highly likely advanced into the town centre,” the MoD said.
“Ukraine’s key 0506 supply route to the west of the town is likely severely threatened.”
Russia’s assault on Bakhmut has been the focus of the biggest battle in the conflict, now in its 14th month.
