Ukraine’s coldest months threaten to bring a new crisis as Russian airstrikes cripple its power grid. Recent attacks on Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia underscore Russia’s strategy of targeting civilian infrastructure, plunging millions into darkness.

Amid these challenges, Ukraine is urging its allies to step up support. Long-range missiles, Kyiv argues, could deter further strikes by targeting Russian military sites. Washington, however, weighs the risks of such escalation.

Efforts to integrate Ukraine’s electricity grid with Europe provide some relief but fall short of meeting the nation’s urgent energy needs. Meanwhile, President Putin’s campaign to “weaponize winter” aims to break Ukraine’s resolve.

As snow begins to fall, Ukraine’s battle is not just against Russia but also against time. A harsh winter without adequate power could lead to a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, testing Kyiv’s resilience and the resolve of its Western allies.