The hardest time of the year. This is how the Ukrainian soldier “Volodomyr” describes the winter in the Ukrainian countryside. But despite failing support from the outside world, Ukraine is better equipped against Russian attacks compared to last year.
For their help, the Ukrainian soldiers have foreign air defense systems. Among other things, the Stinger robot from the USA is deployed in several places, above all with the aim of preventing Russia from bombing heating plants and power lines.
– If we do not defend this part of the country, millions of people will suffer, says the Ukrainian soldier “Volodomyr”.
“Wood boilers, generators and batteries”
There is a concern about what winter will bring. The people TV4 Nyheterna talks to say that, after all, they have the capacity to manage the electricity supply themselves if Russia attacks energy facilities.
– We are strong and can achieve anything. But of course we have to prepare. We have wood boilers, generators and batteries. We are preparing for everything, says police officer Oleksandr Movchun.
One of the residents, pensioner Mykola Kovalyov, had his property shot to pieces by Russian soldiers the last time they moved in the area. Among other things, a grenade hit the house. Now he is busy chopping wood to cope with the cold.
– We are not going anywhere. If I had a gun, I would have given again, even though I am old. I do what I have to, he says.