Kyiv's Winter Readiness: Stockpiling Supplies and Rebuilding the Darnytsia Power Plant

Winter Preparations in the Capital

According to Главком: In an interview, Kyiv's Deputy Mayor Valentyn Mondrievsky detailed the city's winter readiness plans and the coordination between different levels of government. He stressed the division of responsibility among the city administration, the national government, and the military to prepare the capital for the cold. Mondrievsky noted that communication with the Ukrainian Cabinet of Ministers has improved after a month of work by a joint headquarters, enhancing operational efficiency. This coordination is vital as Ukraine's infrastructure remains a target during the ongoing conflict.

Kyiv continues to build up its reserves of energy and heating capacity, purchasing cogeneration equipment independently and receiving aid from partners. The city has prepared over a thousand generators of various capacities to ensure an uninterrupted power supply for residents. This year, more than three million Kyiv residents stayed home during the winter cold, underscoring the critical need for preparedness against potential emergencies.

Rebuilding the Darnytsia Power Plant

Mondrievsky separately addressed the Darnytsia Thermal Power Plant (TPP), which suffered severe damage from an attack on February 3, 2026. The plant has now entered a phase of major reconstruction, with work focused on clearing debris and assessing damage to structures. In this context, the deputy mayor emphasized that the military administration should concentrate on security and cooperation with the armed forces to protect critical infrastructure, stating:

'In this situation, I see no role whatsoever for the military administration, other than performing the functions of the state in Kyiv.' - Valentyn Mondrievsky

Commenting on the city's situation, Mondrievsky noted that 'when politics gets involved here – I don't understand it.' He believes Kyiv was better prepared to handle the consequences of enemy attacks than some other regions. 'I believe that a country at war and defending itself should demonstrate unity, not discord,' he added.

Overseeing winter preparations, Mondrievsky highlighted the importance of a continuous electricity supply, especially in freezing conditions:

'We state that we need a certain amount of electricity from DTEK, which the city lacks. We need uninterrupted power in the service area of the damaged TPP-4 during the cold, so people can heat their homes.' - Valentyn Mondrievsky

These remarks underscore the importance of coordinated efforts among various state structures to ensure the comfort and safety of the capital's residents.

Preparing Kyiv for winter amid ongoing warfare is critically important for ensuring the stability and security of its inhabitants. The efforts of local authorities, particularly in building up energy reserves and improving communication with the government, demonstrate a deliberate approach to crisis management. Given the constant threats, it is essential that all levels of government work cohesively to provide adequate living conditions in the capital.