Bridges and power grids in the capital damaged by Russian shelling
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko stated that intense Russian strikes on energy infrastructure and bridges have plunged the capital into survival mode ahead of winter. He advised residents with relatives outside the city to consider temporarily relocating. This was reported by France 24 citing AFP, according to the portal PromPolitInform.
In recent weeks, Russian forces have shifted their tactics, increasing daytime missile and drone attacks on the Ukrainian capital. Key bridges across the Dnipro River and central city areas have been targeted, severely disrupting transport links between the left and right banks.
Energy Crisis and Heating Season Preparations
Renewed strikes on the power grid have triggered rolling blackouts and temporary water supply disruptions across several districts. City authorities are preparing for a potential repeat of last winter, when energy attacks cut off heating and electricity as temperatures plummeted.
«Today the issue is survival», — said Vitali Klitschko.
Since the 2022 invasion, Russian attacks have killed at least 534 people in the capital, according to municipal health data. Some 189 residents have died so far this year, already surpassing the total toll for all of 2025.
Alternative Logistics and City Readiness
To ease severe traffic congestion, municipal services are developing alternative pontoon crossings across the Dnipro River. The city’s daytime population, including commuters, stands at approximately 3.5 million people, making river connections vital for daily functioning.
Local authorities are stockpiling fuel, food, drinking water, and building backup heating systems to prepare for winter. However, the mayor stressed that overall safety heavily depends on the effectiveness of air defence systems.
Klitschko also addressed criticism from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s government regarding the pace of winter preparations, calling the accusations unfounded. He noted that municipal authorities face a difficult task amid limited time, funding, and workforce.
Illustrative photo: Kyiv City State Administration / CC BY 4.0
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