Ukraine will ease some curfew restrictions in areas affected by an emergency in the energy sector, Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko said on 15 January.
Ukraine has been under a nationwide nighttime curfew since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, with movement restricted during set hours as part of martial law and security measures aimed at preventing sabotage and maintaining public order.
Energy crisis forces authorities to adapt wartime rules
The decision comes as Ukraine faces widespread power and heating disruptions caused by Russian strikes on energy infrastructure and severe winter conditions. Authorities say the measures are aimed at supporting civilians and basic services during outages.
The government and president have declared a state of emergency in Ukraine's energy sector following massive damage to power facilities and temperatures dropping to -15°C.
Over 1,200 warming points have been deployed across Kyiv, while hundreds of buildings remain without heat following recent Russian attacks.
Under the changes, people in designated areas will be allowed to move outside during curfew hours without special permits. Private vehicle traffic will also be permitted.
Warming centers and resilience hubs exempt from restrictions
Residents will be allowed to stay in public places, including shopping centers that function as warming centers, resilience hubs, or provide essential services for people and businesses. These locations must have heating, backup power, and stable communications. Entertainment venues are excluded.
Local emergency response headquarters or regional military administrations may introduce additional easing measures depending on local conditions, Svyrydenko said.
Emergency commission to determine affected areas
The areas where the new rules apply will be determined by the State Commission on Technogenic and Environmental Safety and Emergencies. The commission is scheduled to hold its first meeting on the issue on 16 January.
Ukrainian authorities stressed that the curfew will not be lifted nationwide. Earlier on 15 January, officials said Kyiv had set up a special headquarters to deal with the aftermath of recent Russian strikes, while the government ruled out a full cancellation of curfew restrictions.
Security and defense forces will remain responsible for maintaining public order during the eased curfew periods, the prime minister said.
