Housing and Utilities Expert Oleg Popenko
In an interview for the 'Khvylia' program, Oleg Popenko stressed that Ukrainians should not rely on state structures during the energy crisis and network failures. He argued that local community action, not government support, is the critical solution. The interview was conducted on Yuriy Romanenko's broadcast and published on YouTube on January 26, 2026.
Issues in the Municipal Sector
Popenko pointed out that the utility sector is suffering from a severe staff shortage, including a lack of plumbers, electricians, and medical personnel. He urged residents to avoid dividing people by language or regional background, warning that such divisions yield negative consequences.
'No homeowners' association, housing cooperative, or municipal service will save you if you don't communicate with each other. We must think about how to unite locally: in apartment buildings, in private housing areas, on our streets. We need to befriend and support one another.'
Oleg Popenko
The expert further emphasized that having reasonable neighbors in an apartment building allows residents to maintain decent living conditions.
'If you have reasonable neighbors in your apartment building, you will live in decent conditions. In this situation, we must try to unite.'
Oleg Popenko
He also cautioned that 'it is foolish and senseless to divide people by their birthplace or language. If we start pointing out to every neighbor which language they speak, it will lead to nothing good.'
Additionally, the expert offered several practical tips for apartment residents, including:
- independently deciding who will drain water from heating systems during shutdowns;
- assisting socially vulnerable residents.
Thus, according to Popenko, collective action by neighbors can significantly improve living conditions amid current challenges. This advice is particularly relevant as aging infrastructure and resource constraints strain public services across many regions.
Oleg Popenko's statements highlight an urgent need for social unity and solidarity, especially during crises that impact quality of life. With a shortage of qualified personnel in the municipal sector, active citizen involvement in solving local problems can be a crucial factor for improvement. Neighborly support and cooperation can help overcome difficulties and create a more resilient living environment. Such grassroots initiatives can positively influence social cohesion and community well-being.