Kyiv Faces Heating Crisis Amid Intensified Russian Attacks

Following a series of Russian missile and drone strikes on January 24, 2026, approximately 1,676 apartment buildings in Kyiv remain without heating, according to Mayor Vitalii Klitschko. This assault is part of a broader pattern of intensified attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, which has left millions without power during sub-zero winter temperatures. President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that Russia's primary targets are critical infrastructure and residential buildings, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the capital.

Ukraine apartment buildings left without electricity and heat after Russian attack on KyivUkraine war latest: 80% of Ukraine faces emergency power cuts, 15% of Kyiv residential buildings remain without heat after Russian attackZelensky Seeks Air Defense Support as Russia Plunges Kyiv Into Cold1,676 high-rises in Kyiv still lack heating after Russia’s winter attacks15% of Kyiv residential buildings remain without heat after Russia's attacks, Mayor Klitschko saysFresh Russian Strikes Cut Heat to Thousands in Ukraine’s Freezing CapitalRussia launches massive strikes on Ukraine's largest cities and targets energy infrastructure

• January 9, 2026: Initial strikes severely damage Kyiv's energy infrastructure, leaving thousands without heating.

1,676 high-rises in Kyiv still lack heating after Russia’s winter attacks

• January 20, 2026: Further attacks compound the heating crisis, with many buildings losing power again.

1,676 high-rises in Kyiv still lack heating after Russia’s winter attacks

• January 24, 2026: A mass aerial assault results in extensive damage, leaving nearly 6,000 buildings without heating and killing at least one person.

1,676 high-rises in Kyiv still lack heating after Russia’s winter attacks

The ongoing attacks have forced many residents to seek shelter in "Resilience Points," temporary heating tents set up across the city. As temperatures drop to around -12°C (10°F), the lack of heating has made living conditions increasingly dire. Eyewitness accounts reveal that families are struggling to maintain a semblance of normalcy, with children unable to attend school due to the closures caused by the energy crisis.

Ukraine war latest: 80% of Ukraine faces emergency power cuts, 15% of Kyiv residential buildings remain without heat after Russian attack

Mayor Klitschko reported that utility workers have restored heating to over 1,600 buildings since the latest attack, but many remain without service. He urged residents who have alternative accommodations to leave the city temporarily, a suggestion met with skepticism by many citizens. President Zelensky has called for increased air defense support from international allies, stating, "Every massive attack by Russia can become devastating."

Ukraine war latest: 80% of Ukraine faces emergency power cuts, 15% of Kyiv residential buildings remain without heat after Russian attack

Critics argue that the Ukrainian government has not done enough to prepare for the winter crisis. Some residents express frustration over the lack of effective communication and support from local authorities. "Far too little has been done in the capital," Zelensky acknowledged, emphasizing the need for urgent action to restore essential services.

EU Sends Generators to Ukraine as Russian Strikes Cut Heating

There are discrepancies regarding the total number of buildings affected by the attacks. While Klitschko reported 1,676 buildings without heating, other sources indicated that nearly 6,000 were impacted at the height of the crisis. Additionally, the exact number of casualties from the recent strikes varies, with reports of at least one death and multiple injuries.

1,676 high-rises in Kyiv still lack heating after Russia’s winter attacks

As negotiations continue in Abu Dhabi between Ukrainian, Russian, and U.S. officials, the situation in Kyiv remains precarious. The outcome of these talks could influence future military and humanitarian support for Ukraine, particularly in terms of air defense systems and energy infrastructure restoration.

Zelensky Seeks Air Defense Support as Russia Plunges Kyiv Into Cold

• “Russia’s main targets right now are our energy sector, critical infrastructure, and residential buildings.” — Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine

15% of Kyiv residential buildings remain without heat after Russia's attacks, Mayor Klitschko says

• “Currently, 1,676 apartment buildings in Kyiv remain without heating after the enemy’s attack on the capital on 24 January,” — Vitalii Klitschko, Mayor of Kyiv

1,676 high-rises in Kyiv still lack heating after Russia’s winter attacks

• “Every massive attack by Russia can become devastating.” — Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine

Ukraine war latest: 80% of Ukraine faces emergency power cuts, 15% of Kyiv residential buildings remain without heat after Russian attack

• “Far too little has been done in the capital.” — Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine

Russian strikes leave Ukrainian kids without heat and power, and parents stuck for options with schools closed

The situation in Kyiv underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the war, with residents facing harsh winter conditions amid relentless attacks on their infrastructure.

Ukraine war latest: 80% of Ukraine faces emergency power cuts, 15% of Kyiv residential buildings remain without heat after Russian attack