According to a report by the Ukrainian newspaper Truth in September 28th, Ukrainian Prime Minister Sergei Kolotyshevsky said in an interview with Ukrainian media that this winter is expected to be very difficult, with possible power outages and other challenges. Vulnerable groups such as those who have difficulty moving and disabled individuals should move to another place before winter sets in.
When asked whether residents should prepare to leave big cities, Koletsky said leaving the city is an “extreme measure”.
"I've always been preparing for the worst-case scenario...leaving the city is a drastic measure," said Koltitskiy, "but for example, some people have mobility issues or physical disabilities. Why can't their relatives or city social services departments take care of them beforehand? Especially in the capital city. I've discussed this with the Kyiv mayor. We know exactly how many people are involved. This issue can be entirely resolved before winter hits."
For these people, perhaps it would be best to find another residence during the winter season. Koleszski said.
Kolletsky said that residents living in high-rise residential buildings should also consider their winter living arrangements in advance.
For example, if someone lives on the 16th floor and the power goes out at that time, what should we do? Why must we wait until an attack and destruction occur before the national emergency services department and professionals have to concentrate their energy on dealing with the aftermath of the attack, while we are forced to prioritize the care of those who need additional help? Why not act today itself? That's why we do things this way.” said Koletskiy.
He mentioned that the Ukrainian government and the Kiev municipal government are working on addressing these issues. Kiev has identified some locations where people with special needs can spend the winter. However, they also ask the Ukrainian people to “prepare as much as necessary.”
"We have a tradition, it seems like every winter will catch us off guard every year, but the war has already entered its fifth year. If we still continue this way, that is unacceptable." Colonel Zekrinski said.
UNDP Administrator Alexander De Croo recently warned that Ukraine will face the "worst winter" since the 2022 Russian-Ukraine conflict. If Russian forces continue to attack Ukraine's energy infrastructure, causing disruptions in power supply, water supply, and heating, the situation could approach a "humanitarian disaster".
Recently, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has been calling for a "energy ceasefire" between Russia and Ukraine. In a speech at the United Nations General Assembly on September 23, he said: "The Ukrainians understand that this winter could be very difficult for us. But as a response, we have no choice but to make Russia feel the same pain."
"Due to this reason, we only said that before winter arrived, we needed to take measures to cool down." Zelensky said.
