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Due to the ongoing attacks from Russia, Ukraine is introducing a state of emergency in the energy sector. This decision was announced by President Vladimir Zelensky on his Telegram channel on Wednesday, January 14.
Zelensky noted that the consequences of Russian shelling, as well as adverse weather conditions, are creating serious problems. He reported that repair crews, utility services, and energy companies are working around the clock to restore electricity and heating.
The president also ordered an increase in electricity imports from other countries and a review of curfew rules. He clarified that during the state of emergency, authorities may lift the curfew in certain settlements.
Additionally, Zelensky criticized the city authorities for their inadequate preparedness for power outages. He focused on the situation in Kyiv, saying: "Very little has been done in the capital. And even in recent days, I do not see the intensity — the situation needs urgent correction."
In response to the criticism, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko accused Zelensky and his supporters of "unfounded criticism." He questioned: "What exactly 'intensity' in the work of Kyiv during the state of emergency does the president not observe, especially in recent days?"
Klitschko explained that his recent call to leave Kyiv was an attempt to honestly warn about the difficult situation. He added: "I have faced a barrage of criticism for recommending that those who can temporarily leave do so to avoid the cold and lack of light and heat. I speak the truth and warn people about the difficulties, and I do not care about ratings."
"I apologize for responding publicly, but over the past four years, you and I, Mr. President, have not met even once," the mayor added.
On the same day, January 14, Klitschko reported on his Telegram that the situation in Kyiv is "very difficult": "Such a scale of problems has not been seen in the four years of war."
According to him, about 400 high-rise buildings in Kyiv remain without heating, and authorities expect to restore heating in some of them by the evening of January 14. Following a recent attack by Russia on the capital on January 9, 6,000 homes were left without heating.
Klitschko noted that the heating situation on the right bank of the city is already more stable, while serious problems remain on the left bank. Currently, emergency electricity shutdown schedules are in effect in Kyiv, and hourly schedules are no longer applied.
