Kyiv is facing growing challenges as Russian attacks intensify, shifting from predominantly nighttime raids to frequent strikes during the day. Residents report a constant barrage of air-defense explosions, drones, and missile impacts that have disrupted routines, including school and work activities.

Last winter’s severe cold, with temperatures dropping as low as -20°C and lasting into February, serves as a stark reminder of the hardships that may lie ahead. Russian forces have increasingly targeted the city’s power infrastructure in an effort to cut heating and electricity supplies, aiming to make Kyiv uninhabitable during the colder months. Several residents, including illustrator Sergiy Maidukov, have endured prolonged outages that left indoor temperatures as low as 3°C. To cope, people have resorted to wearing multiple layers of clothing, staying physically active, and using improvised heating methods.

The situation is particularly alarming for vulnerable groups. Filmmaker Iryna Tsilyk emphasized the risks faced by those who have difficulty moving or accessing heat, highlighting the humanitarian concerns intensified by the ongoing conflict. Disruptions to essential services such as internet and water supply compound the risks. For example, resident Maria Shuvalova described periods when water was unavailable for several days, forcing residents to adopt unsanitary measures under stressful conditions.

Amid these deteriorating circumstances, some Kyiv inhabitants are considering evacuation or temporary relocation. Nastya Dyakova, CEO of an online safety charity, has organized a refuge in the Carpathian Mountains, offering free shelter to staff and families should the need arise.

Despite the mounting difficulties, many Kyiv residents remain resolute in their determination to withstand the coming winter amid the ongoing war. Images from the hard-hit Lukyanivka district reveal extensive damage, underscoring the severe impact of the conflict on the city’s infrastructure and daily life.