Power Crisis at the Bukovel Ski Resort
Following a massive assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure on February 7, the Bukovel ski resort has been forced to partially switch to generator power. The attacks caused power outages in the resort town, leading to a temporary halt of its ski lifts. A video circulating online shows smoke emanating from one of the lifts, an incident likely caused by the electrical disruptions.
Widespread Strikes on Energy Facilities
In the early hours of Saturday, February 7, Russian forces targeted facilities critical to the operation of nuclear power stations, including the Burshtyn Thermal Power Plant (TPP). The combined assault caused a complete loss of water and heating supply in the city of Burshtyn in the Carpathian region. The Burshtyn TPP sustained serious damage and has ceased operations.
The overnight attack on February 7 was large-scale, involving strikes by attack drones and missiles. According to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, over 400 Russian drones were used in this assault, a significant portion of which were 'Shahed' models. Nearly 40 missiles of various types were also recorded. Ukrainian air defenses managed to shoot down a substantial number of the hostile drones and missiles.
At Bukovel, where the power supply situation became critical, the resort is transitioning to generators to maintain operations amid the blackouts. This major winter sports destination is a key economic driver for western Ukraine, making its operational continuity vital for the local economy.
This attack underscores the vulnerability of Ukraine's energy infrastructure, which has already suffered extensive damage from numerous strikes. Bukovel's shift to generators demonstrates how businesses are adapting to new realities, yet it also threatens the tourist season and the region's economic stability. Simultaneously, the active air defense efforts highlight Ukraine's capability to protect its assets from mass attacks, a crucial factor in preserving critical infrastructure.