Ukrainian Attacks Trigger Widespread Belgorod Blackouts, Injuries

The Russian city of Belgorod experienced a massive power outage after a series of powerful explosions targeted key infrastructure, including the Belgorod CHP plant and the Luch electrical substation. This blackout affected not only Belgorod but also surrounding towns, disrupting electricity, water, internet, public transportation, and traffic signals, leaving residents in darkness and some trapped in elevators. Regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov confirmed significant damage and reported two injuries, with emergency services operating on backup power. The strikes are attributed to Ukrainian forces aiming to disrupt Russian military logistics in response to Russia's ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that Ukraine would retaliate against attacks on its energy infrastructure, signaling potential reciprocal strikes on Russian targets. The situation underscores the escalating conflict's impact on civilian infrastructure and the ongoing hostilities between Ukraine and Russia.