At a suburban Kyiv railway station, two carriages painted in blue and white sit on the main platform, their diesel engines running against a backdrop of gently falling snow. These trains, dubbed Ukraine's 'Invincibility Trains', are a vital service for numerous residents struggling with power outages and the absence of basic amenities like running water and heating.
As temperatures hit a bitter -19C this week, many families find respite onboard the trains, which serve as gathering places and resource hubs during the intense cold. Alina, a mother, reflects on her struggles as she watches her son Taras play, highlighting the challenges faced by many in the city.
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky and Kyiv's Mayor Vitali Klitschko have spoken out against the Russian strategy of targeting critical infrastructure during winter. The mayor suggested some residents leave the city to alleviate pressure on resources, a suggestion that has drawn criticism.
Meanwhile, families like Yulia Mykhailiuk’s endure the harsh winter in cramped settings, relying on makeshift solutions to keep warm. With heating options limited and electricity sporadic, the community is banding together, demonstrating perseverance. The grim reality of the ongoing war casts a shadow over daily life, but the spirit of solidarity and determination persists among the residents of Kyiv.
Engineers work tirelessly to restore power and repair damaged infrastructure around the city, facing the daunting task of recovering from months of targeted strikes against energy facilities. Despite the winter's challenges, the resolve of Kyiv's residents remains strong in the face of adversity.
