In a recent statement, the UN's human rights chief, Volker Turk, reported on Russia's continued attacks targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, which occurred last night. These assaults resulted in hundreds of thousands of civilians waking up without essential services such as electricity and heating. Additionally, they claimed the lives of two individuals, underscoring the dire impact of these attacks on civilian life.

Turk emphasized that the targeting of civilian infrastructure is a violation of international humanitarian law and urged the Russian Federation to immediately cease these strikes. He highlighted the harsh conditions that civilians are enduring, particularly during the severe winter season where temperatures can drop to 20 degrees Celsius, exacerbating their suffering without access to adequate warmth and essential utilities.

The ongoing bombardment by Russia has not only led to significant loss of life but has also disrupted all aspects of civil life in Ukraine. The UN's appeal brings attention to the urgent need for international intervention and the protection of civilians, reinforcing that prolonged attacks on essential infrastructure during an already turbulent time pose a serious threat to human rights and humanitarian principles.