Zelenskyy urges allies for air defense as Kiev faces freezing cold

By Ahmet Taş | Wise News Press

VILNIUS, LITHUANIA — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has issued an urgent appeal to Western allies for increased air defense support as intensified Russian strikes on energy infrastructure leave hundreds of buildings in Kiev without heating during a record cold winter.

According to President Zelenskyy, Russia launched over 1,700 drones, 1,380 guided aerial bombs, and 69 missiles within the past week alone, causing widespread power and heating outages. Speaking in Vilnius, Lithuania, where he arrived to commemorate a historic 1863 uprising, Zelenskyy emphasized that missiles for air defense systems are needed daily to ensure the protection of Ukrainian skies. Kiev has been particularly hard-hit, with Mayor Vitali Klitschko reporting that 1,676 high-rise apartment buildings were left without heat following attacks on January 24.

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens in Kiev

The repeated aerial assaults combined with sub-zero temperatures have severely hindered repair teams attempting to restore electricity and heating. The crisis has forced the evacuation of approximately half a million people from the capital as conditions become increasingly unlivable. Ukrainian officials note that while Russia has targeted energy infrastructure throughout the nearly four-year war, this winter has proven to be the most severe.

Diplomatic Efforts in Abu Dhabi

While military strikes continue, a parallel diplomatic track took place in Abu Dhabi over the weekend. Officials from the United States, Russia, and Ukraine participated in discussions aimed at ending the conflict. Although Zelenskyy indicated that no immediate breakthrough was achieved, he described the talks as "constructive." The parties have agreed to reconvene in Abu Dhabi next week for further negotiations.

Constant Need for Protection

Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine is working continuously with the US and Europe to strengthen its sky defense. "This is why missiles for air defense systems are needed every day, and we continue to work with the USA and Europe to ensure stronger protection of our skies," he stated. The appeal comes as the international community watches closely to see if the upcoming diplomatic rounds can provide any relief to the embattled energy grid.

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