The Mayor of Kyiv, Vitali Klitschko, has rejected accusations that he has derailed preparations for the 2026–2027 heating season. In a video address on 13 October, he stated that the city is preparing for the cold weather, but that Russian attacks on energy infrastructure are hampering the supply of heat and electricity. The following day, Klitschko is due to report on the situation in the capital to the Verkhovna Rada.
Briefly about the main points
- Klitschko described the claims regarding Kyiv’s preparations for winter as unfounded.
- The mayor attributed the risks to the heat and electricity supplies to Russian attacks on the energy sector.
- On 18 September, the Kyiv City State Administration assessed the implementation of the planned measures under 80%.
- The mayor stated that around 300 community leaders may be under pressure.
- Parliament approved the hearing of Klitschko’s report on 14 October.
The mayor attributed the disruptions to the aftermath of the Russian strikes
Klitschko He stated that reports of the capital’s alleged failure to prepare for winter were being circulated by sources he associates with the central government. He did not name any specific individuals.
According to the mayor, the greatest threat to the city’s public services stems from Russian attacks, which are damaging the electricity grid and other critical infrastructure. Commenting on the power cuts, Klitschko said: «The mayor is not responsible for air defence».
What readiness indicators had the Kyiv City State Administration previously cited?
As at 18 September Kyiv City State Administration reported that 80% of the planned winter preparation measures had been carried out. The readiness of the centralised heating system was then estimated at 90%.
The preparations included the repair and maintenance of networks, the implementation of the Kyiv Energy Resilience Plan, ensuring the readiness of utility services for emergencies, and the establishment of backup heating supply systems. The city authorities also warned that some large-scale energy projects would require more time and would not be completed before the onset of cold weather.
Klitschko spoke of attempts to undermine local self-government
The mayor, who also heads the Association of Ukrainian Cities, has spoken out about attempts to remove around 300 local authority leaders from office. According to him, elected leaders may be replaced by appointed heads of military administrations.
Klitschko attributed this to political pressure on local government and said that the people of Kyiv should judge his performance in the next local elections.
The Verkhovna Rada will hear the mayor’s report on 14 October
On 13 October, the Verkhovna Rada supported Klitschko’s call for a report on the situation in the capital. The initiative was tabled by a Member of Parliament Mariana Bezuhla; it was supported by 151 MPs, with eight voting against.
First Deputy Speaker of Parliament Alexander Kornienko He announced that the mayor’s speech had been scheduled for 12:00 on Wednesday, 14 October. A previous attempt to invite Klitschko to the meeting had failed to secure the necessary number of votes.
