Russia-Ukraine war: List of key events, day 1,431

Kyiv residents are experiencing prolonged power outages during the winter due to ongoing Russian missile and drone attacks targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure. The attacks, which occurred as recently as January 20, 2026, have left many stranded in tower blocks without electricity or heat. One resident, Olena Janchuk, who is unable to walk, is shown enduring the blackout with her mother, using candles and heated bricks to stay warm. The blackouts are widespread, affecting residential buildings across Kyiv and forcing residents to adapt by using alternative methods for cooking and communication. The attacks continue to impact daily life for many in the city.

Following recent large-scale Russian aerial strikes targeting Ukraine's infrastructure in January 2026, Kyiv is experiencing widespread blackouts and heating outages, with temperatures well below freezing. Approximately half of the capital's homes are without power, prompting President Zelenskyy to declare a state of emergency in the energy sector. The attacks, which included drones and ballistic missiles, have plunged key buildings like the Parliament into darkness and caused water pipes to burst due to freezing temperatures. Despite the challenging conditions, young people in Kyiv are gathering in cafes and bars powered by generators to maintain morale. The United Nations has condemned the strikes as a violation of international law, with Zelenskyy accusing Russia of weaponizing the cold.

Russian air attacks struck Kyiv and Kharkiv, Ukraine, on January 24, 2026, resulting in at least one death and nearly 20 injuries. The attacks occurred as negotiators from Russia, Ukraine, and the United States prepared to meet in Abu Dhabi for a second day of peace talks. These negotiations are centered around a plan proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump aimed at ending the nearly four-year-long war. The attacks highlight the ongoing conflict despite diplomatic efforts to find a resolution.

Overnight Russian air strikes on Kyiv and Kharkiv, Ukraine, resulted in one death and at least fifteen injuries. Kyiv's mayor reported a "massive enemy attack" involving drones and ballistic missiles, damaging non-residential buildings and interrupting essential services. One person died and four were wounded in Kyiv, with fires erupting due to drone debris. In Kharkiv, Iranian-made Shahed drones damaged residential buildings near the Russian border, according to the city's mayor. The attacks occurred while Ukraine was under a nationwide air raid alert. The reason for the attacks is part of the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.