Story perspectives

Russian Attacks Risk Ukraine's Businesses Amid Power Outages

2/11/2026

Center

Ukraine Businesses Struggle

The ongoing power outages from Russian attacks on Ukraine's energy grid threaten Ukrainian businesses.
Bakery owner Olha Hrynchuk says generators cost about $16 per hour to operate.
Establishments such as the Best Way to Cup café are at risk of closure due to damage and rising costs.
The Kyiv School of Economics warns that prolonged energy failures could reduce gross domestic product (GDP) by up to 3%.

Right

Kharkiv's Underground Education

Kharkiv has set up eight underground schools in subway stations to educate 1,200 students each amid Russian bombardment.
Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov says the United States and allies must provide long-term security guarantees after the war.
Terekhov doubts Russia's commitment, citing energy infrastructure attacks despite a brief ceasefire.
Kharkiv has more than 48 apartment buildings and 3,500 private homes affected, underscoring the need for international support to return to normalcy.

Left

Ukraine Fortifies Infrastructure

Ukraine relocates substations underground to shield energy infrastructure from Russian strikes, with one secured in a bunker and another under way, per Vitaliy Zaichenko, Ukrenergo CEO.
Ukraine needs external financing for nearly 100 substations, with the European Investment Bank exploring options.
The war has driven Ukrenergo to restructure $825 million in bonds and fortify facilities, shielding over half of its transformers with concrete shields at a cost around $300 million.

History

Historical Context

Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 marked a significant escalation of conflict that began with Ukraine's independence in 1991. The ongoing war has devastated infrastructure, with the Kyiv School of Economics estimating a potential 3% GDP loss. Amidst this turmoil, Kharkiv established underground schools for 1,200 students, underscoring the urgent need for educational continuity and the importance of international support for Ukraine's recovery.

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Ukraine Businesses Struggle

The ongoing power outages from Russian attacks on Ukraine's energy grid threaten Ukrainian businesses.
Bakery owner Olha Hrynchuk says generators cost about $16 per hour to operate.
Establishments such as the Best Way to Cup café are at risk of closure due to damage and rising costs.
The Kyiv School of Economics warns that prolonged energy failures could reduce gross domestic product (GDP) by up to 3%.

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