Russia fails its "winter war" against Ukrainian energy system – UK Ministry of Defence

This was reported by the UK Ministry of Defence.

"Russia’s campaign to severely degrade Ukraine’s unified energy system (UES) within the 2022-23 winter has highly likely failed," the statement said.

The intelligence officers note that Russia has been conducting long-range and large-scale strikes since October 2022, but since the beginning of March, they have become rare. 

However, smaller-scale strikes with less than 25 munitions continue. They are likely to have a much smaller impact on Ukraine's energy system.

The intelligence service also reported that Ukrainian grid operators continue to purchase replacements for transformers and other critical components. However, the delivery and installation of these components is currently a serious logistical problem. This includes high-voltage transformers that weigh at least 100 tons.

"Ukraine’s energy situation will likely improve with the arrival of warmer weather. Planning and preparations for next winter have likely already begun," the intelligence service emphasised.

• On April 7, British intelligence assessed the situation of Russian troops in the battle for Bakhmut, Donetsk region: "Wagner fighters and Russian MoD commanders possibly improved cooperation".