Zelensky: Russia launched 76 attacks on Ukraine's energy grid despite US ceasefire

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that Russia has launched 76 targeted attacks on Ukrainian energy and oil-and-gas infrastructure since the US-brokered energy ceasefire was announced a week ago, also firing nearly 2,700 drones, 1,700 guided bombs, and 66 missiles. Zelensky detailed that overnight into October 18, Russian forces struck substations in four regions, leaving tens of thousands of households without power, while attacks on residential buildings killed two people and wounded 12, including two children. He emphasized that Russia continues to target energy facilities despite ceasefire claims, aiming to cause a massive blackout. Zelensky urged the US to increase pressure on Moscow, arguing that Russia interprets signals of possible agreements as permission to continue fighting, and that the war persists due to Russia's position, not Ukraine's self-defense. The energy ceasefire was announced by President Trump on October 11, with Ukraine expressing readiness to halt strikes on Russian energy infrastructure.