Russian drone strike on Khmelnytskyi nuclear plant substation threatens European nuclear safety, Ukraine says

Ukraine reported that Russian forces struck a critical substation serving the Khmelnytskyi nuclear power plant with three drones overnight, calling it a threat to nuclear safety for all of Europe. First Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal said Ukraine has informed the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of the attack, which he described as a serious escalation. He stated that Russia launched 289 drones, 17 ballistic missiles, and 59 cruise missiles, targeting energy infrastructure including power plants and substations. Ukraine has been forced to limit output at nuclear plants because damaged substations cannot transmit all generated electricity. Officials warned that energy facilities remain insufficiently protected and Russia may intensify attacks on the Kyiv region ahead of potential peace negotiations.