Over 2,500 Ukrainian miners trapped underground after Russian strike on Dnipropetrovsk

More than 2,500 miners were trapped underground following a Russian missile strike on the Dnipropetrovsk region of Ukraine, leaving eight coal mines without power.

According to Ukraine's Ministry of Energy, 2,595 workers were underground when the attack occurred. Emergency efforts to bring the miners to safety are currently underway, and fortunately, there have been no reported casualties or injuries as of now, Caliber.Az reports per Ukrainian media. 

"At the time of the incident, 2,595 miners were underground," the Ministry of Energy said in a statement.

Rescue teams, along with mine personnel, swiftly organised the evacuation of the workers, with efforts still ongoing to bring them to the surface safely. Ukrainian officials have condemned the attack as part of Russia's continued campaign of "energy terrorism," aimed at leaving Ukrainians without power and heating during the harsh winter months.

"Russia continues its energy terrorism. Another strike has endangered the lives of thousands of miners. Russia continues to wage war on civilians. The Russians' tactics are clear – to leave Ukrainians without light and heat in winter," said Svitlana Hrinchuk, Ukraine's Energy Minister.

As the situation develops, Ukrainian authorities are working to restore power to the mines and ensure the safety of all those affected by the strike.

By Sabina Mammadli