In brief
Ukrainian energy provider DTEK is under immense pressure as ongoing Russian drone and missile strikes disrupt power supplies. CEO Maxim Timchenko highlights the relentless nature of these attacks, which have left millions without electricity and have forced communities to adapt to severe power cuts during winter months. Amidst such adversity, Ukrainians demonstrate resilience, relying on support and alternative energy sources.
Ukraine's biggest private energy provider is living in permanent crisis mode because of Russian attacks on the grid, its chief executive has told the BBC.
Most of Ukraine is suffering from lengthy power cuts as temperatures drop and Maxim Timchenko, whose company DTEK provides power for 5.6 million Ukrainians, says the intensity of strikes has been so frequent that 'we just don't have time to recover'.
President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Tuesday that Russia knew the winter cold could become one of its most dangerous weapons.
Every night Ukrainian parents hold their children in basements and shelters hoping our air defense will hold, he told the Dutch parliament.
As the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion approaches, Maxim Timchenko says Russia has repeatedly targeted DTEK's energy grid with 'waves of drones, cruise and ballistic missiles' and his company has found it difficult to cope.
Tens of thousands of people in the southern city of Odesa have been without electricity for three days this week, following a coordinated Russian attack.
Life has been difficult, but people are very supportive of each other, says Yana, who is among those who still have power. She has invited friends to her home to charge their phones.
Power outages also cut off heat and water supplies. Many Ukrainians rely on power banks and generators as backups, creating a new normal where the sound of generators dominates daily life.
About 50% of Ukraine's energy is currently supplied by three large nuclear power plants in central and western Ukraine. However, the network that transfers that power has been severely damaged. DTEK runs about 5 power stations, most of them fueled by coal.
Finding spare parts to repair damaged equipment has become a significant challenge, with the company now needing to source parts from the rest of Europe. This year, DTEK has spent $166 million on repairing its damaged thermal power plants and coal facilities.
Maxim Timchenko insists, We will not give up. We have a responsibility to millions of mothers to have power and heat.
