More than 1,400 Kyiv apartment blocks remain without heating, Zelenskyy says
Over 1,400 apartment buildings in Kyiv lack heating, highlighting ongoing energy challenges due to Russian strikes, according to President Zelenskyy.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reported that more than 1,400 apartment blocks in Kyiv are still without heating, a situation that underscores the severe energy crisis facing the capital following continued Russian strikes. This development comes amidst a broader concern over the state of public services and infrastructure in the capital, as the government scrambles to provide adequate support to residents enduring harsh winter conditions without essential heating. The president emphasized the urgency of the situation in a recent coordination call focused on energy sector challenges, particularly in light of recent attacks that have exacerbated the humanitarian situation in urban areas.
To address the heating crisis, Zelenskyy announced an expansion of the Warmth Packages programme, which aims to distribute resources to assist those affected by the temporary heating outages. The initiative is set to target at least 40,000 households, with a significant portion of these resources directed towards the hardest-hit areas in Kyiv. This response highlights the Zelenskyy administration's commitment to ensuring that vulnerable populations receive necessary aid despite the ongoing difficulties posed by the geopolitical landscape and resource limitations.
Additionally, the situation in the Kherson region was highlighted, as six settlements there are reported to be in particularly challenging conditions for repair work. This further emphasizes the extensive impact of the energy crisis, as both urban and rural areas face unique challenges in restoring essential services. The ongoing dialogue between government officials and local authorities aims to foster a coordinated response to these pressing issues, reflecting the need for a united effort in overcoming the current humanitarian challenges presented by the war.