Russian forces launched a treacherous attack on the energy infrastructure in the border-region of Sumy Oblast, utilizing unmanned aerial vehicles equipped for combat operations in FPV drone mode
Military drones operating in so-called “cinematographic” modes have been used multiple times before to strike sudden blows against critical infrastructure objects in Ukraine’s east and north, and this incident was no exception. This attack was reported by the head of the regional military administration, Oleg Grigorov, who emphasized that the raids took place on June 9 in Glukhiv community, located near the border with Russia. According to him, the enemy deliberately targeted energy facilities, which have long remained the most vulnerable points of Ukraine’s critical infrastructure amid the ongoing war. “In order to minimize their losses, the occupiers used FPV drones to destroy energy infrastructure objects in Glukhiv community. As a result of this strike, over 20,000 Ukrainian subscribers in four different communities in Shostka district were left without power,” Oleg Grigorov stated. This means that tens of thousands of people are now without light and heat, and they have to endure inconveniences and heightened tension due to regular enemy attacks. He also noted that the administration has already begun active measures to eliminate the consequences of this attack and restore power supply. Energy companies have reported that repair works are underway at the damaged sites. Emergency and recovery operations are ongoing, including connecting backup power sources to stabilize the situation and restore electricity as quickly as possible. Overall, such attacks are becoming more frequent and more cynical. The use of FPV drones is a new trend in Russia’s tactical operations against Ukraine, generating concern among Ukrainian specialists. Mobile drones are capable of delivering precise and swift strikes against targets that are very difficult to neutralize with traditional methods. Ukrainian military and armed forces affirm that they are actively working on deploying new air defense systems to combat this modern attacker tactic. At the same time, regional authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and adhere to safety protocols during such attacks. Despite efforts to counter them, the enemy continues to deliberately target Ukraine’s critical infrastructure in order to sow panic and weaken stability in the region. Currently, Ukrainian energy providers and military officials assure that they are doing everything possible to quickly restore damaged facilities, and the situation remains under close supervision by specialists. Meanwhile, the public is encouraged to be prepared for possible new provocations and not to panic. In combating this new challenge, unity and support for efforts at all levels of government are crucial. Overall, this attack serves as another reminder of the importance of modern air defense systems and the security of critical infrastructure, as without electricity and heat, Ukraine becomes even more vulnerable to informational and military aggression by the occupier.