In anticipation of potential repeat attacks on its energy infrastructure by Russia, Ukraine is set to either manufacture or procure 100 new high-voltage transformers, as reported by The Economist on October 2. Due to past strikes on Ukrainian factories, a significant portion of these transformers will be sourced from abroad. To safeguard against future Russian attempts to destroy them, the foreign-made transformers will be stored in Poland or Romania until deployment is necessary. Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko highlighted Ukraine’s enhanced capabilities in handling large-scale attacks and emphasized innovative plans to protect critical infrastructure and maintain a stable power supply. However, he cautioned that Russia may adapt its tactics based on lessons learned from last winter’s attempts to disrupt the electrical system. The article notes that Russia initiated attacks on Ukraine’s critical energy infrastructure in October 2022, resulting in extensive damage and prolonged power disruptions, with the average Ukrainian home experiencing five weeks without electricity between October and December. Recognizing the ongoing threat, Ukraine has actively prepared for an escalation of attacks this winter, with Russia already initiating strikes on critical structures in the current year.

Read more at the Kyiv Independent.