By Micah Jonah, February 16, 2026
Russia launched a major air assault on Ukraine on February 7, targeting cities from Kyiv to Odesa, days after high-profile Western visits to the country. The strikes, involving 408 drones and 39 missiles, damaged critical energy infrastructure, including facilities linked to nuclear power plants. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted most attacks, but power outages left hundreds of thousands without electricity, heating, or water amid freezing winter temperatures.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced adjustments to Ukraine’s defense tactics, including reorganizing front-line logistics and supply oversight. Ukrainian forces have also targeted Russian airfields and military production sites deep inside Russia, striking facilities in Astrakhan and Tver regions.
The conflict continues to strain Russian forces, with January casualties reported at 31,700, exceeding recruitment for the month. Ukraine’s disruption of Starlink satellite terminals has further hampered Russian drone operations, forcing Moscow to rely on domestic systems and even offering financial incentives to locals willing to register terminals in Russia’s name.
Diplomatic efforts have yielded limited results. Two rounds of tripartite talks in Abu Dhabi produced prisoner exchanges but no ceasefire. Zelenskyy warned that the US and Russia may attempt a deal excluding Ukraine and Europe to influence US midterm elections.
The European Union has escalated sanctions, proposing a total ban on Russian seaborne oil and new restrictions on metals, chemicals, and technology exports. The measures target loopholes in existing sanctions and aim to pressure Russia into genuine negotiations. India, a major buyer of Russian oil, has halted shipments beyond mid-March following US and EU pressure.
Ukraine continues to resist Russian advances while navigating energy shortages, civilian casualties, and strategic disruptions to Russia’s military communications. Analysts emphasize that Moscow faces mounting operational challenges despite its sustained aid campaign.
