Zelensky tasks PM with assembling Kyiv winter preparations team, says Klitschko 'can't do it alone'

President Volodymyr Zelensky has instructed Prime Minister Serhii Koretskyi to establish a team dedicated to assisting Kyiv's City Administration with their winter preparedness plans, emphasizing that the city is not adequately equipped for the upcoming season. Zelensky firmly stated that he cannot allow Mayor Vitali Klitschko to handle this matter independently, as it is an insurmountable challenge for a single individual.

Koretskyi has been given the responsibility of assembling a managerial team to aid Kyiv in its winter preparations, which are currently lagging behind schedule due to Russia's renewed attacks on energy infrastructure. Zelensky expressed his hope that all institutions could work together to tackle these challenges, noting that Klitschko has shown reluctance to accept assistance from other institutions, perceiving it as an attempt to undermine his authority.

Earlier this month, Zelensky highlighted Kyiv's relative lack of winter preparedness compared to other frontline regions, particularly praising Kharkiv's resilience despite its ongoing struggles with Russian attacks. Klitschko has faced growing criticism for his failure to adequately prepare the city for another winter, with a protest of hundreds of residents demanding his resignation, better shelter systems, protection of green spaces, and transparency in winter preparations.

In response to the recruitment efforts, Zelensky proposed potential members for Koretskyi's task force, including Vasyl Maliuk, Oleksandr Kubrakov, and Volodymyr Groysman, while also mentioning the decline of Serhii Sukhomlyn's participation. Zelensky and Klitschko have had a tumultuous relationship, marked by accusations and tensions over centralization of power and fund allocation.

Zelensky has previously criticized Klitschko for his perceived inaction, while Klitschko has retaliated against the president regarding power consolidation and withheld funds.