Russian forces launched an overnight missile and drone attack on northern Ukraine, targeting energy infrastructure and igniting a significant fire in the western part of the country, according to Ukrainian officials on Tuesday. Ukraine's air force commander reported that Ukrainian forces successfully intercepted three ballistic missiles and 25 out of 26 drones during the assault, which affected nine regions across the nation.

In the northeastern Sumy region, which shares a border with Russia, an energy facility was struck, leading to power outages in 72 settlements and affecting over 18,500 consumers. Energy workers quickly mobilized to repair the damage, as stated by the regional administration on Telegram.

For the past six months, Ukrainian energy infrastructure has faced near-daily bombardments as the conflict continues following Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. Although Ukraine imports electricity from neighboring European Union countries, it still faces a significant shortfall, leading to regular power cuts during peak evening hours.

In the western Ternopil region, an industrial facility was targeted in the latest wave of attacks, resulting in a fuel reservoir being hit. Ukrainian television broadcasted images of large columns of black smoke rising over Ternopil, prompting regional authorities to advise residents to stay indoors. Viktor Ustenko, a deputy head of the Ternopil regional administration, stated that over 90 firefighters were actively working to extinguish the fire and assured that the situation was "fully under control."

Kyiv also came under attack but managed to repel the assault without major damage or casualties, according to city officials. Moscow has not commented on the attacks as of now. Both Russia and Ukraine claim to target military-critical infrastructure, yet the conflict has resulted in many civilian casualties. Moscow has continued its airstrikes since Ukrainian forces began an incursion into Russia's Kursk region on August 6, while Russian forces have been gradually advancing in parts of eastern Ukraine.