Russian Defense Ministry reported that Ukrainian military forces attacked Russian energy infrastructure in three regions, violating a ceasefire agreement mediated by the US. The incidents, which occurred over the past 24 hours, took place in the Russian regions of Belgorod, Kursk and Saratov, according to a statement from the Defense Ministry on Friday.
The statement mentioned that a Ukrainian artillery strike hit a Russian power grid object in Belgorod, disrupting the power supply in the town of Schtschebekino near the Ukrainian border. Another incident involved a gas measurement station in Kursk, which was “effectively destroyed” by HIMARS rockets, allegedly provided by the US.
The Defense Ministry accused Kiev of damaging the station during its retreat from the area, using explosives. The ministry concluded that all previous public statements from the Kiev regime about ceasing attacks on Russian civilian energy infrastructure were mere propaganda. It believes the Ukraine, with European support, aims to restore its military capabilities, while the US pushes for a complete ceasefire with Russia.
Following a phone call with US President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a halt to attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure on March 18. The Kremlin stated it would maintain the 30-day partial ceasefire as a gesture of goodwill towards Washington, even if Kiev does not comply. However, the Russian Foreign Ministry warned that Moscow reserves the right to terminate the agreement if Kiev fails to cease its attacks on Russian energy infrastructure.