Mayor Klychko: "I Don't Want to Take Santa Claus Away from Children"
Lighting Decorations Omitted Considering Power Shortage Due to Russian Infrastructure Attacks
[Asia Economy Reporter Bang Je-il] Ukraine is currently experiencing a severe power shortage due to Russian missile attacks targeting power infrastructure within the country. However, this power crisis has not been able to dampen the enthusiasm of Ukrainians for Christmas.
As Christmas approaches, a Christmas tree will be installed in Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, as in previous years. Vitali Klitschko, mayor of Kyiv, stated in an interview with the domestic media outlet RBC, "No one will cancel New Year's events and Christmas, and the New Year's atmosphere must be maintained," adding, "We cannot let Putin steal our Christmas."
Mayor Klitschko continued, "We will install a Christmas tree so that our children can feel the New Year's spirit," explaining, "I do not want to take Santa Claus away from the children." He added, "Apart from the tree installation, traditional New Year's festivities such as concerts or large gatherings will not be held this year."
Reuters reported that to ensure a successful Christmas tree, several local companies will support trees to be installed throughout Kyiv, including Sophia Square. However, considering the power shortage, lighting and wreath decorations on this year’s Christmas tree will be omitted.
Meanwhile, Ukraine has recently faced the onset of winter cold with the first snowfall, but many power plants and combined heat and power plants have been destroyed by Russian missile attacks, leaving millions of citizens without proper electricity or heating supply. Kovalenko, CEO of YASNO, a major private energy supplier in Kyiv, has predicted that power outages could continue until March next year.
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