• Russian strikes cause power outages across 13 Ukrainian regions, affecting thousands in freezing temperatures.
• At least three people, including a 4-year-old child, were killed in the attacks.
• Missile and drone strikes targeted Ukraine's energy infrastructure just before Christmas.
• Poland scrambled jets to protect its airspace as the situation escalated near its border.
• Ukrainian President Zelenskyy condemns the strikes amid ongoing peace negotiations.

Russia launched a "massive" strike on Ukraine, deploying over 650 drones and dozens of missiles, resulting in widespread power outages and at least three fatalities, including a child. The strikes, reported across 13 regions, occurred amidst tensions and ongoing negotiations aimed at resolving the conflict, indicating a clear demonstration of Russia's priorities, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and officials from various sources Al Jazeera, South China Morning Post, Channel News Asia, and ABC News.

The assault on December 23 marks one of the largest combined Russian attacks in recent weeks, further compounding challenges for Ukrainians dealing with harsh winter conditions. Reports indicate that significant damage was inflicted on energy infrastructure, forcing emergency power outages across various regions. Ukrainian energy officials are engaged in restoration efforts while under continued threat from ongoing strikes, as noted by multiple sources Al Jazeera, South China Morning Post, Channel News Asia, and ABC News.

As a response to the strikes near its borders, NATO member Poland deployed aircraft to secure its airspace, indicating heightened precaution amid escalating tensions. Polish military officials confirmed that the aircraft were enacted as preventive measures aimed at safeguarding their territory, reflecting regional security concerns exacerbated by Russia's aggressive military actions Al Jazeera, South China Morning Post, Channel News Asia, and ABC News.

President Zelenskyy condemned the timing of the attack, which he remarked is especially cruel given the proximity to Christmas, a time when families wish to gather in safety. His remarks highlight the stark contrast between the humanitarian desires of the Ukrainian populace and Russia's persistent military objectives amidst ongoing peace negotiations, as affirmed by several sources Al Jazeera, South China Morning Post, Channel News Asia, and ABC News.