The head of the power company urges residents to leave Ukraine, here’s why

KIEV – Citizens of Ukraine should consider leaving the country to reduce the burden on the disrupted electricity grid.

This was asked by the head of Ukraine’s largest private electricity company, DTEK Holding, Maksim Timchenko, during an interview with the BBC which aired on Saturday (11/19/2022).

“If they can find an alternative place to live for another three or four months, that will really help the system,” Timchenko said.

He also urged his compatriots to consume less electricity. He explained that the surplus was needed for essential infrastructure facilities and hospitals.

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In recent weeks, the Ukrainian energy system has repeatedly been subjected to Russian military attacks, triggering rolling and emergency blackouts.

“If you consume less, hospitals with wounded soldiers will have a guaranteed electricity supply. This is how it can be explained that by consuming less or leaving, they also contribute to others,” Timchenko said.

The statement was apparently deemed too concerning for the general public. The Ministry of Energy of Ukraine stepped in to reassure people that the situation with the supply of electricity was under control and there was no need to leave the country.

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“By rejecting the panicked declarations spread by social networks and online media, we assure you that the energy supply situation is difficult, but under control,” the Ministry of Energy of Ukraine said in a statement.