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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that he would declare a state of emergency in the energy sector Russia’s string of attacks on power grid.
Crews have been working around the clock to restore power and heating supplies, particularly in the capital Kiev, which were hit by Russian attacks last week.
Repairs at thousands of apartment buildings have become more difficult due to the severe cold.
At night, Ukrainians shivered in temperatures approaching -20 degrees Celsius in one of the coldest winters in years.
“Russian attacks and worsening weather conditions have serious consequences,” Zelensky wrote in English on social media platform X.
“In general, a state of emergency will be declared in the Ukrainian energy sector…many issues need to be addressed urgently.”
Later, in a nightly video address, the president said not enough was being done to deal with the aftermath of the attack.
He said a state of emergency would give authorities “more options and flexibility”.
Zelensky called for the creation of more centers where residents can stay warm and charge their electronic devices.
He also said that night curfews could be lifted in areas where the security situation allowed.
The president accused Kyiv of being far less prepared to deal with the difficulties caused by an attack than other major centers, especially Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second largest city.
“Even in the last few days, I haven’t seen enough intensity,” he said.
“This must be corrected immediately. A decision must be made.”
Kiev Mayor Vitali Klitschko, who has previously disagreed with Zelensky over the defense of the capital, dismissed the president’s criticism. He wrote on Telegram that heating has been restored to all but about 400 of the 6,000 affected apartment buildings, and support centers are open 24 hours a day.
“Such remarks destroy the dedication of thousands of professionals in the first place,” Klitschko wrote.
“They may not have weapons in their hands, but through unremitting efforts, they are fighting for their country.”
Zelensky said in his speech that a permanent coordination headquarters will be established in Kiev.
Newly appointed First Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister Denis Shmihal will oversee the effort.
He said work was underway to “significantly increase Ukraine’s electricity imports.”
He also urged the military to hold its ground along the 1,200-kilometer (775-mile) front and diplomats to continue working to secure documents needed to secure peace.
“From our perspective, maximum productivity is needed,” he said.
“We expect the same level of proactive work from the U.S.. I’m personally looking forward to that.”