Zelensky declares state of emergency in Ukraine's energy sector

2026-01-15 07:37:00, Kosova & Bota CNA

Ukraine has declared a state of emergency in the country's energy sector, with a particular focus on Kiev, as ongoing Russian attacks continue to leave thousands of residents without electricity.

President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Moscow of deliberately exploiting harsh winter conditions as part of its war strategy, with overnight temperatures in Kiev recently dropping to around -20 degrees Celsius.

The statement comes as Zelensky's US counterpart, Donald Trump, said he was obstructing efforts to secure a peace deal that would end nearly four years of war with Russia.

He told Reuters news agency on Wednesday that Ukraine "is less willing to make a deal" than Russian President Vladimir Putin.

When asked why peace talks have not yet resolved the conflict, Trump replied: "Zelensky."

The two leaders are expected to attend the World Economic Forum in Switzerland next week, although Trump suggested no formal plans to meet have been arranged.

In recent weeks, Russian attacks on Kiev have left thousands of homes without electricity, heating or running water. After a particularly heavy night of rocket and drone attacks last week, 70% of the capital was left without power for several hours.

After a special cabinet meeting on Wednesday, Zelensky said a 24-hour working group would be set up to repair damage caused by Russian attacks and deteriorating weather conditions.

He said the new measures would include securing vital equipment and energy sources from abroad to replace damaged installations.

“The First Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Energy of Ukraine has been appointed to oversee the work in support of people and communities in these conditions,” he wrote in X.

He also ordered an increase in the number of emergency aid points around Kiev to provide heating and power to residents, a move that could lead to the easing of a midnight curfew in the capital.

Russian attacks on energy infrastructure have not been limited to the capital.

Last week, Ukrainian officials said more than a million people in southeastern Ukraine spent hours without heating and water supplies as a result of Russian air strikes./ CNA, translated by BBC