Russian Attacks on Ukrainian Utility Infrastructure: Water and Power

Oct 20, 2022 | Brent Stricker
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After withdrawing from much of the territory it occupied in Kharkov Oblast, the Russian military has turned to a new strategy of attacking civilian infrastructure, such as the power grid and dams. 

The relevant law applicable to the armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine is Additional Protocol I, to which both states are Parties. Articles 48 and 52 of Additional Protocol I describe the principle of distinction between valid military targets and protected civilians and civilian objects. Article 48 notes that military operations should only be directed against military objectives. Article 52(1) notes “civilian objects shall not be the object of attack.” 

On September 14, 2022, Russian Aerospace Forces attacked the Karachunivske dam at Kyvyi Rih, the hometown of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Evidence from various Telegram Channels show that water flow to the city has ceased, forcing civilians to purchase bottled water.