Emergency Divers Halt Power Plant Leak in Sub-Zero Waters Following Attack

Kyiv Attack and the Aftermath

According to Главком: A Russian missile strike on Kyiv damaged a main pipeline at a thermal power plant (TPP). To stop the resulting water leak, divers from Ukraine's State Emergency Service (SES) worked for six days in freezing water, with air temperatures as low as -15°C. Their successful efforts allowed repair crews to begin restoration work. This incident highlights the ongoing targeting of Ukraine's energy infrastructure, which is critical for civilian survival during winter.

In the overnight attack on January 9th, Kyiv was hit by a mass assault using strike drones, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles. By the following morning, approximately 3,000 apartment buildings in the capital were left without heating. However, power supply to all affected critical infrastructure facilities in the city has since been restored.

Bravery Under Extreme Conditions

The SES divers carried out the damage control operation under extreme duress. As noted by Ihor Klymenko,

"SES divers conducted the damage elimination work. They operated in icy water under extreme conditions; the special operation lasted for six days. The water leak was stopped, enabling services to proceed with restoration work."

For their courage, five divers were awarded state honors:

• The Order 'For Courage' III degree was awarded to Artem Orlov, Denys Frolov, and Mykhailo Khyzhnak;
• Andrii Vlasenko received the Order of Danylo Halytskyi;
• Anton Haitan was awarded the 'Defender of the Fatherland' Medal.

These awards underscore the critical importance of their work during the emergency. The event illustrates the severe challenges Ukraine faces amid the ongoing war and the dedication of its emergency services, who perform their duties under the most punishing conditions. It is a testament not only to physical bravery but also to the rapid response required to address war-induced crises, ensuring public safety and infrastructure recovery.