Ukraine war briefing: Zelenskyy declares state of emergency as cities shiver from energy attacks

Yulia Tymoshenko, a prominent Ukrainian opposition leader and former prime minister, has been accused by anti-corruption investigators of orchestrating a bribery scheme involving members of parliament, including those from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's party. Tymoshenko has denied these allegations, suggesting that the raid on her office is linked to speculation surrounding upcoming elections.

Residents of Kyiv are facing severe hardships as Russian strikes have led to widespread power outages and frigid temperatures of -19C, exacerbating the ongoing energy crisis in Ukraine's capital. Many are struggling to keep warm amid these conditions, highlighting the dire humanitarian situation.

On January 9, Russian airstrikes targeted Kyiv's energy infrastructure, plunging the city into darkness and freezing temperatures, reminiscent of the early days of the war. Residents like Tetiana Shkred prepared for power outages, highlighting the ongoing struggle for basic necessities amid the conflict.

In Kyiv, temperatures are expected to plummet to -20C as residents grapple with power outages following a large-scale Russian attack on January 9, which severely damaged energy facilities. Many are now relying on emergency shelters for warmth and electricity, highlighting the dire humanitarian situation.

A Russian overnight attack on the northeastern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv resulted in the deaths of at least four individuals and left several others injured, according to regional and city officials. This incident underscores the ongoing violence as Russia continues its near-daily strikes across Ukraine.