New Delhi, January 19. The protracted war between Russia and Ukraine continues to rage, with both sides exchanging relentless attacks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russia of prioritizing military strikes over diplomatic efforts. Moscow’s focus remains squarely on crippling Ukraine’s energy infrastructure amid the chaos.
In an exclusive interview with IANS, Ukraine’s Ambassador to India, Oleksandr Polishchuk, opened up about the dire situation back home. ‘The war has made conditions in Ukraine extremely challenging,’ he stated firmly. ‘But this is proof that no one can erase Ukraine’s identity. We will never give up; we will fight on. When we win this war, it will show the world that Ukraine is a nation of true bravery. Our history and people are ready to sacrifice everything for our country.’
Reflecting on the recent World Book Fair in India, the ambassador praised the event. ‘I’m delighted to see how it’s organized to highlight collaboration between Indian culture and your armed forces, who showed valor in Operation Sindoor. In Ukraine, we have similar heroes fighting on the front lines.’
On India’s potential role in brokering peace, Polishchuk emphasized, ‘We truly need India, a nation that has always championed global peace.’ He also underscored the vital US-Ukraine partnership: ‘All discussions with America are crucial. The US has been our strongest ally since day one of this 2022 invasion, aiding our defense efforts.’
Zelenskyy’s recent address to the nation painted a grim picture of the energy crisis. ‘Russia targets our energy sector relentlessly,’ he said. ‘Nearly 58,000 workers are toiling around the clock on power grids, generation plants, and heating networks. State companies like Ukrzaliznytsia are fully mobilized. For Kyiv, where conditions are toughest, we’ve brought in 50 additional crews from across the country.’
Challenges persist, with many homes still without heat. Repair teams are rushing essentials to every affected household. Northern Kyiv and Boryspil district face acute issues, as do border and front-line areas like Kharkiv, Chernihiv, Sumy, Dnipro, and Zaporizhzhia, where constant shelling hampers repairs. Efforts in Poltava and Odesa are stabilizing supplies, but the fight continues.
Ukraine’s resolve shines through these trials, a testament to its unyielding spirit against aggression.