Europe Asia News

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky provided an update on the current situation in regions affected by the energy crisis, noting that Kyiv, Kharkiv, Sumy, Chernihiv and Dnipro are currently the most severely impacted areas.

Drawing attention to the situation in the capital, Zelensky said: “As of this morning, around 4,000 buildings in Kyiv are still without heating, and approximately 60 percent of the capital has no electricity. According to reports from city authorities, resources are sufficient but time is needed. I do not agree with this assessment; additional measures and additional resources are required.”

Referring to steps taken to accelerate the process and alleviate public hardship, Zelensky stated: “The Ministry of Internal Affairs provided information on the establishment of assistance points, heating centers, and preparations for hot meals. Keeping base stations and mobile communications operational is of critical importance. We discussed with government officials and Ukrenergo how to speed up grid and transformer repairs.”

Touching also on defense and personnel issues, Zelensky added: “I received a report on the deployment of additional forces from Zaporizhzhia to shoot down Shahed-type drones. In addition, the Prime Minister and the Minister of Defense will verify all information regarding the exemption of energy and public utility workers from mobilization; a decision granting 100 percent exemption for the staff of these companies is already in place.”