Russia Begins Pre-Winter Ballistic Missile Attacks on Ukraine's Energy Grid

Russia has begun pre-winter ballistic missile attacks on Ukraine's energy grid, aiming to collapse the system with up to 1,000 missiles, drones, and bombs, according to an intercepted plan shown to European partners. Ukrainian President Zelensky accuses Putin of ordering commanders to abandon war rules, escalating strikes on civilian targets. The Russian campaign targets substations, hydroelectric, thermal, and heating plants, with Kyiv's South Bridge hit for a second consecutive day. Ukraine retaliated with drone and missile strikes on Russian military factories and oil refineries, with Moscow reporting 646 drones downed overnight. Zelensky criticized Western allies for insufficient support, noting Ukraine is testing five interceptor drones to counter Russian weapons, with one model set for 400 units by late October. He also cited F-16 maintenance delays in Europe as a hindrance.