Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called Russian leader Vladimir Putin a “nuclear terrorist.” He did this after Russia launched a huge attack with drones and missiles. This happened on February 7, 2026. The attacks aimed at Ukraine’s energy system. They specifically hit important electrical substations. These substations are critical for Ukraine’s nuclear power plants to work. The strikes forced several nuclear units to shut down. Zelensky says this creates a big risk of a radiation disaster that could spread worldwide.
Zelensky Labels Putin a “Nuclear Terrorist” Following Infrastructure Strikes
In a speech to the nation, Zelensky said these attacks were very extreme. He said no other terrorist in the world has ever tried something like this. The Russian military used around 40 missiles and more than 400 drones. They did not just attack for heat. They carefully targeted the main power lines for nuclear plants. By doing this, Russia is using nuclear safety as a weapon. If a nuclear plant cannot send out power, it must shut down fast. This process is dangerous. If it goes wrong, it could cause a meltdown and spread radioactive material.
Critical Infrastructure Under Fire: The Impact on Ukraine’s Energy Grid
The damage is very bad. Ukraine’s power company says eight regions were hit. Because of this, millions of people now have very little electricity. In the capital, Kyiv, people may only have power for 1.5 to 2 hours each day. All nuclear plants in Ukrainian-controlled areas had to reduce their power. Other big power plants were also hit. The Energy Minister says the attacks hit the very base of the country’s power grid. Striking this during winter is seen by many as a crime against people, trying to break their spirit.
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Global Security Concerns and International Response
Calling Putin a nuclear terrorist is a serious charge. The International Atomic Energy Agency is very worried. They say Ukraine’s power grid is now “extremely fragile.” If the power lines to a nuclear plant fail, the plant loses all outside electricity. Then it must use emergency diesel generators to cool the reactor. If those fail, a major accident can happen. The world is being asked to help. Ukraine wants more advanced air defense systems and mobile generators from NATO and the European Union. The United States is reportedly pushing for peace talks by summer 2026. But these new Russian attacks show Moscow may be choosing a “scorched earth” strategy instead of peace.
The Broader Context: A Humanitarian and Environmental Crisis
This crisis is not just about no lights or heat. It is a threat to all of Eastern Europe. An accident at any of Ukraine’s nuclear reactors would not stop at the border. The environmental damage could be worse than the Chernobyl disaster in 1986. It could affect the Black Sea region and farther. This “nuclear blackmail” seems to be a strategy by Putin. He may be trying to force Western countries to give him what he wants. While this happens, Ukraine continues to fight back. They recently struck a Russian factory that makes fuel for cruise missiles.
Disclaimer
The news information presented here is based on available reports and reliable sources from February 2026. Readers should cross-check updates from official news outlets for the latest developments.