Ukraine war briefing: Zelenskyy declares energy state of emergency as cities shiver

"Volodymyr Zelenskyy is to declare a state of emergency in Ukraine's energy sector to tackle disrupted power supplies after heavy Russian attacks. Energy imports would also be increased, the Ukrainian president said. Emergency crews in Ukraine have proceeded with round-the-clock efforts to restore power and heating supplies at a time when night-time temperatures are dipping close to -20C (-4F). Zelenskyy said the state of emergency would allow authorities more options and flexibility."

"He called for the establishment of more centres where residents can stay warm and charge electronic devices, and said nightly curfews could be lifted in areas where the security situation permitted it. The president said Kyiv whose mayor he regularly clashes with had done considerably less than other major centres, notably Ukraine's second-largest city, Kharkiv, to prepare for the hardships inflicted by the attacks. Even in recent days, I do not see sufficient intensity, he said. This must be urgently corrected. Decisions must be made."

Zelenskyy will declare a state of emergency in the energy sector and increase energy imports to address widespread power and heating disruptions caused by heavy Russian attacks. Emergency crews are operating round-the-clock to restore services as night-time temperatures approach -20C. Plans include establishing more warming centres and charging facilities, and lifting nightly curfews where security allows. Kyiv is criticized for lagging behind other major cities such as Kharkiv in preparedness, while the Kyiv mayor reports most heating restored and support centres running 24/7. A permanent coordination headquarters in Kyiv under Denys Shmyhal will oversee recovery, with calls for military steadiness and diplomatic effort.

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