Kharkiv Mayor Terekhov on Evacuation Decisions: A Personal Choice for Each Resident

Statement by Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov

According to Главком: In an interview with the publication 'Glavcom,' Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov outlined his position regarding residents leaving and returning to the city. He noted that while many residents fled Kharkiv in the initial days of the war, a number have since come back. Terekhov emphasized that the decision to evacuate or stay is a deeply personal one for which each individual bears responsibility. This comes as the city continues to face severe challenges from ongoing hostilities.

'Since the war began, I have often been asked: 'What should we do? Should we leave or not?' And later they asked: 'Should we return or not?' As if Terekhov should tell them. I have always said, and I repeat now: each person makes their own decision and bears responsibility for it,' Ihor Terekhov

The mayor added that he and his team are working to ensure the city remains functional, with operational transport and job opportunities. 'Everyone will make a considered decision for themselves,' he stated, 'and I, as mayor, my team, and all our municipal services will work to give people the possibility to stay here.'

Heating Supply Issues in Kharkiv

It is important to note that Kharkiv is experiencing significant heating supply problems due to mass strikes on its energy infrastructure, leaving thousands of residents without heat. Damage to the system has necessitated draining the coolant from one of the city's largest thermal power plants.

The situation in Kharkiv remains difficult as residents grapple with the war's impact on daily life. The lack of heat during winter poses a serious challenge for those who have chosen to remain. According to Terekhov, city authorities continue to work on restoring infrastructure, though repairs may take considerable time. The return of more people to Kharkiv will ultimately depend on the security situation and the restoration of basic living conditions.