Ukraine Eases Curfew and Extends School Holidays Amid Energy Crisis.

Government Announces Curfew Relaxation and Extended School Break

According to Novyny.live: In response to a severe energy crisis, the Ukrainian government has announced a relaxation of curfew rules and an extension of the school winter holiday period. Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko stated that starting January 15, 2023, curfew restrictions will be eased in areas experiencing the most significant power supply problems. This decision aims to alleviate conditions for citizens during the ongoing energy emergency.

All educational institutions will remain closed until February 1, 2023. The extended break is intended to help the education system adapt to the new energy realities. However, education officials, including Nadia Leshchyk, have noted that to make up for lost instructional time, the spring holiday may be canceled or the school year could be extended into June.

Energy Situation and Countermeasures

Ukraine currently operates over 10,000 'Invincibility Points'—public shelters providing heat, power, and connectivity—with 1,200 located in Kyiv. Plans are in place to open an additional 3,300 such points to support the population during blackouts. Furthermore, the Cabinet of Ministers is considering a proposal to classify buildings with electric heating as critical infrastructure, which could significantly impact power supply stability.

Operational energy measures include mandatory reductions in electricity consumption to be implemented by regional and Kyiv city military administrations. Beginning January 16, 2023, scheduled power outages will affect all regions of Ukraine, requiring careful management of energy resources. Svitlana Hrynchuk emphasized that energy facilities are under protection to ensure the security of the country's critical infrastructure.

Additional measures include planned restrictions on advertising lighting as part of broader energy conservation efforts. Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal will oversee the implementation of these decisions, highlighting the importance of strict adherence to the new regulations. These steps come as Ukraine's energy grid remains under severe strain from sustained attacks, forcing the government to balance civilian needs with national security. The creation of shelters and consumption limits are part of a wider strategy to maintain social stability during this challenging period.