The UN has called Russia's attacks on the energy sector a war crime: the report mentions the Kherson region

Russian troops deliberately attacked civilian energy infrastructure facilities in Ukraine, which constitutes a war crime. The UN Commission also classified systematic attacks on the energy sector—aimed at depriving the population of basic services and causing suffering—as crimes against humanity. Among the regions where residents suffered the consequences of the energy crisis was the Kherson region.

This is stated in the report of the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, presented to the UN General Assembly.

The Commission investigated the consequences of Russian attacks on energy infrastructure, particularly during the winter of 2025–2026. According to its findings, during cold spells with temperatures as low as minus 21 degrees, millions of Ukrainians faced prolonged disruptions in heating, electricity, water, and gas supplies.

To prepare the report, the Commission interviewed 255 people who survived the winter amid the energy crisis in nine regions of Ukraine, including Kherson, Odesa, and Mykolaiv. It also reviewed information from Ukrainian authorities, medical professionals, and civil society organizations.

According to the Commission’s findings, the Russian commanders who ordered the strikes were aware of the vital importance of heating facilities to the civilian population, especially in winter. Attacks on energy infrastructure were part of a policy aimed at depriving people of access to essential energy supplies.

“As the winter season approaches, the attacks have intensified again, raising serious concerns about threats to the lives and health of the civilian population,” said Commission Chair Erik Møse.

Separately, the Commission reported evidence of human trafficking during the recruitment of foreigners into the Russian army. According to its findings, Russian authorities used deception and coercion against men from 29 countries. Upon arrival in Russia, they were forced to sign contracts with the Russian Ministry of Defense and were subsequently sent to the front lines in Ukraine.

The Commission called for an end to attacks on the civilian population and civilian infrastructure, as well as for the release from service in the Russian army of those who have become victims of human trafficking.

Андрій Колісніченко