Ukraine is enduring one of the harshest winters in its modern history as relentless Russian strikes cripple the country’s energy infrastructure, leaving millions without reliable heat or electricity. With nighttime temperatures in Kyiv dropping below -20C, rolling blackouts and heating outages have become a daily reality—even in the capital. Speaking to News in Depth on TVP World, Marta Shokalo, editor-in-chief of BBC News Ukraine, described conditions as unprecedented. “We never, ever had winters like this,” she said, noting that many families are leaving Kyiv temporarily as apartments struggle to stay above freezing. While some Ukrainians have relocated to western cities such as Lviv, the situation there remains fragile. Electricity cuts can last up to 12 hours a day, and only limited heating is guaranteed. Still, Shokalo stressed that public anger is directed primarily at Russia, not the Ukrainian authorities. “Everyone is trying their best,” she said, highlighting the round-the-clock work of engineers repairing damaged power facilities under constant threat. Call for help Kyiv has intensified calls for international assistance, including what officials describe as an “energy Ramstein” effort to mobilize urgent support. Yet Ukrainian officials privately warn that another major strike on the capital could trigger a humanitarian collapse, forcing mass evacuations. The crisis is unfolding as diplomatic efforts to end the war remain stalled. Ukrainian representatives are traveling to Washington for further talks, even as U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly blamed Kyiv for the lack of progress. President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected that claim, insisting delays lie with Moscow. Despite growing exhaustion, Shokalo said more Ukrainians are now hoping for at least a temporary ceasefire. Still, she stressed that territorial concessions remain a red line. “We are just protecting our lives and our land,” she said.
