Ukrainians brace for -20C despite energy truce: ‘It will be a catastrophe’

Ukrainians are preparing for a severe cold snap with temperatures expected to drop as low as -20 degrees Celsius, exacerbating an already dire situation of electricity shortages. Citizens are grappling with the challenge of staying warm in their residences amidst ongoing power outages. The impending freeze is raising fears of a widespread humanitarian crisis, with many fearing “a catastrophe” as the nation navigates the dual threat of extreme weather and damaged energy infrastructure. The current energy situation, severely impacted by attacks on power facilities, has led to rolling blackouts across the country, making the prospect of enduring sub-zero temperatures even more perilous for the population. Efforts to repair damaged energy infrastructure are ongoing, but the scale of the challenge, coupled with the harsh winter forecast, presents a significant hurdle.