Kyiv on edge: Mayor Klitschko warns Ukraine’s independence at risk

Ukraine’s survival as an independent nation remains an “open question”, Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko has warned, as Russia intensifies its attacks on the Ukrainian capital, bringing Kyiv to the brink of catastrophe.

In an interview with the Financial TImes (FT), he attributed the situation to severe damage to critical infrastructure over the past two months. 

The mayor noted that Russia’s repeated strikes on critical infrastructure have left Kyiv on the brink of catastrophe but utility and emergency workers have largely prevented a blackout.

Klitschko described the city’s political rivalries and tensions with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and warned that strife at home could be as dangerous as Russia’s attacks. 

“Russia’s goal is internal destabilisation,” Klitschko said, urging a ceasefire not just with the Kremlin but also within the presidential administration. “Right now unity inside the country is the key for our peace and freedom.”

Additionally, Klitschko emphasised that city authorities are taking steps to mitigate the damage and maintain the operation of key municipal services.

By Jeyhun Aghazada