Russia-Ukraine war: List of key events, day 1,445

On day 1,445 of the Russia-Ukraine war, February 8, 2026, Russia launched over 400 drones and 40 missiles targeting Ukraine's power grid, hitting thermal power stations and distribution lines, leaving over 1,000 apartment buildings in Kyiv without heating. Poland briefly suspended operations at two airports near the Ukrainian border due to the strikes. Ukraine retaliated by striking an oil depot in Russia's Saratov region, a missile fuel component plant in the Tver region, and the Bryansk region, causing damage and power disruptions. Russia claimed to have captured the village of Chuhunivka in Ukraine's Kharkiv region. The International Atomic Energy Agency reported that Ukrainian nuclear power plants reduced output due to the military activity affecting electrical substations.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that the U.S. is proposing a deal to end the Russia-Ukraine war by June, potentially influenced by upcoming U.S. midterm elections. Zelensky indicated that the next round of peace talks could occur in about a week, following a proposed energy truce. The U.S. has advised both Ukraine and Russia to halt strikes on energy targets as a de-escalation measure, which Ukraine has accepted. However, shortly after Zelensky's comments, Russian forces launched a missile and drone barrage targeting Ukraine's power grid, leaving much of western Ukraine without essential services.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on Friday that the Ukrainian air force needs to improve its performance amidst ongoing Russian drone attacks. These attacks have been targeting Ukraine's energy sector, causing widespread blackouts, particularly in Kyiv. Residents are seeking refuge in emergency shelters called "Points of Invincibility" to cope with the power outages. In Zaporizhzhia, a Russian aerial strike hit a stray dog shelter, resulting in the evacuation of wounded animals. The attacks highlight the strain on Ukraine's infrastructure and the need for enhanced air defense capabilities.