Russian defense officials announced on Sunday that their forces are preparing for large-scale strikes targeting Ukraine’s energy sector as a retaliatory measure against recent attacks by Kyiv. The announcement, made via Telegram, stated that Russian forces have begun preparations for these strikes in response to ongoing attacks on civilian infrastructure and Russia’s oil and energy complex by the Ukrainian government.

The timing of the announcement comes amid rising concerns over the humanitarian impact of such strikes. Reports indicate that a recent Russian strike on a warehouse west of Kyiv has already resulted in a death toll of 38, marking one of the deadliest attacks of the year. While the focus remains on Ukraine, some reports suggest that Russia is also considering targets beyond the region, with former officials revealing plans for strikes on UK infrastructure.

Despite the escalation, the situation in Ukraine continues to draw international attention, particularly regarding the ongoing challenges at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which has operated without external power for over a week. The war’s broader economic implications, including potential food price inflation, remain a growing concern for global markets.