Ukraine’s Prime Minister Sergiy Koretsky has urged vulnerable residents, particularly those with limited mobility or disabilities, to consider relocating from cities such as Kyiv before the onset of winter. The recommendation aims to reduce pressure on emergency services in the event of further Russian attacks targeting the country’s energy infrastructure.

Last winter, Kyiv experienced prolonged power and heating outages following strikes by Russian forces on Ukraine’s energy sector, leaving many without electricity in temperatures that dropped as low as -20 degrees Celsius. With the colder months approaching again, concerns are rising among residents about the possibility of similar disruptions.

Koretsky stopped short of recommending a full evacuation of the capital, describing that as an “extreme step.” Instead, he suggested that those most at risk should explore alternatives for the winter period, either with relatives or through social services organized by the city. He spoke about the matter during an interview on TSN television, noting discussions with Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko.

The prime minister highlighted the challenges that emergency responders could face if power outages occur, particularly for individuals living in high-rise buildings who may require additional attention during such crises. “If a person lives, for example, on the 16th floor and the power goes out, why should state emergency service specialists be diverted from managing the broader consequences to attend to those needing extra care?” Koretsky said. He emphasized that planning ahead to find alternative accommodations for vulnerable people would help emergency workers focus on critical tasks during emergencies.

Kyiv authorities and emergency services have been preparing for potential energy infrastructure threats amid ongoing hostilities, but the prime minister’s warnings underscore the continued risks facing civilians as winter approaches in Ukraine.