Turning winter into a weapon: Oxfam warns of deadly impact of attacks on Ukraine’s energy system

As temperatures plunge to double-digit negatives, millions of people across Ukraine are suffering through another harsh winter with no heating or power, disruptions in communications, and in large parts of the country, no water, as Russia continues its attacks on the country’s energy infrastructure.

Oxfam and partner organisations Voice of Romni and Shchedryk, are warning of the life-threatening impacts on civilians, especially the most vulnerable communities.

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Winter should not be turned into a weapon against the people of Ukraine, and we strongly condemn Russia’s targeting of critical infrastructure. These attacks threaten civilian lives, especially the elderly, people with disabilities, families with young children, and displaced people who can’t afford alternative fuel or generators.  Targeting civilian infrastructure is a violation of International Humanitarian Law and we reiterate the call for all warring parties to respect IHL and protect all civilians, as well as infrastructure that is crucial for their survival.”

Sarah Redd, Oxfam Ukraine Response Advocacy Communications and Engagement Manager

Those suffering the worst of the attacks are communities who were already facing a humanitarian crisis, such as the Roma communities experiencing deep structural exclusion.

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The Kharkiv region is currently facing one of the most difficult situations in Ukraine due to its proximity to the border and ongoing attacks on energy infrastructure. The lack of electricity leads to outbreaks of cold-related illnesses, especially in overcrowded Roma homes. Large families and women with infants are at particular risk - it is difficult or impossible to prepare baby food. There is a risk of complete humanitarian isolation due to snow-covered roads and lack of communication.”

Haliya Morozova, regional coordinator of Voice of Romni in Kharkiv

Meanwhile, in rural areas in southern Ukraine, partner organisation Shchedryk is supporting communities where repeated power cuts, water shortages, and the rising cost of basic needs are pushing people to the brink.

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There is no drinking water in our village, so we depend entirely on organisations bringing bottled water. Winter makes everything harder: stove heating requires firewood, which many pensioners simply cannot afford. Reaching a doctor often requires paying for private transport because public options run only twice a week. In winter, every delivery of firewood, water, or hygiene supplies becomes a matter of survival.”

Kateryna, a resident of Novopavlivka village in the Kherson region

Many of Ukrainian civil society organisations are working without reliable power, heat or water themselves, while continuing to deliver aid to hard-to-reach communities. Oxfam highlights the need for international support to ensure lifesaving assistance can continue as winter progresses.

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