Some Russian soldiers fighting in Ukraine are likely experiencing drinking water shortages, according to the UK’s Ministry of Defence. 

“Damage inflicted during ongoing Russian strikes against utilities infrastructure is now almost certainly curtailing water supply,” it said in a statement. 

Russia has continually targeted Ukrainian infrastructure throughout the two-and-a-half year long war. 

The MoD also noted that hot weather would have exacerbated the issue. 

It also noted one report suggesting that rations for Russian pilots had been limited to one litre per day – a quarter of the minimum requirements for high-temperature working. 

“As a result, Russian pilots have reportedly approached local citizens for water.”

The MoD also claimed that some military units had been forced to improvise filtration attempts and were using “stagnant puddles for daily water”. 

“This has likely led to an increase of waterborne diseases amongst Russian soldiers… and will almost certainly impact morale and operational effectiveness.” 

Russia strikes energy infrastructure in Chernihiv

Russia attacked energy infrastructure in Ukraine’s northern region of Chernihiv with drones overnight, the national grid operator has said.

Power has now been restored to those who had suffered power cuts in some areas of the region, Ukrenergo said in a statement on Telegram.

Strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure have been widespread across the country as Russia stepped up its attacks on Ukraine’s power banks over the past five months. 

The city of Chernihiv has previously come under attack by Russia, including in April, when three missiles struck an eight-floor apartment building, killing at least 11 people.