A short pause in Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure brought a moment of relief this week as winter conditions continue to strain the country’s power grid. The halt followed recent high-level conversations involving former US President Donald Trump, who said he urged Moscow to stop strikes targeting civilian energy systems during extreme cold.
Ukrainian officials acknowledged the pause and said it could help stabilize electricity and heating supplies at a critical time. They stressed, however, that no formal or comprehensive ceasefire is in place. Fighting has continued in other areas, and air raid alerts have not fully stopped.
From the Russian side, officials confirmed a limited suspension of strikes on Kyiv for several days but offered few details on whether the restraint applies nationwide or will be extended. There was no indication of broader peace talks or commitments beyond the narrow timeframe discussed.
The situation highlights how temporary measures, even when welcomed, remain fragile. Similar pauses earlier in the war have often collapsed quickly. For now, the break is seen as a narrow humanitarian step rather than a turning point in the conflict.
