Kharkiv Mayor Urges Parliament to Reconvene After Early Adjournment.

Kharkiv's Mayor Issues a Direct Appeal to Lawmakers

According to Novyny.live: On February 12, 2023, the Ukrainian parliament, the Verkhovna Rada, was forced to end its plenary session early due to a lack of a quorum. Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov has publicly called on the nation's deputies to return to their duties. According to MPs Mykola Tyshchenko and Yaroslav Zhelezniak, a significant number of lawmakers were absent after suffering from food poisoning.

Mayor Terekhov stressed that Ukrainian families, entrepreneurs, and teachers are working 16–18 hours a day under extremely difficult conditions, often without electricity, heat, or communication. He emphasized that

"the nation's highest legislative body has effectively been put on pause until February 24th."

In his view, at a time when the country is operating at its absolute limit, this situation is not merely strange—it is unacceptable. This call comes as Ukraine continues to defend its sovereignty against a full-scale invasion, making legislative action critically urgent.

Critical Tasks Awaiting the Parliament

Terekhov urged deputies to resume work immediately to address the following priorities:

• Restoring energy infrastructure;
• Strengthening national defense capabilities;
• Providing support to communities and cities;
• Ensuring social protection for families;
• Aiding businesses operating in crisis conditions.

His statement underscores the urgent need for the Verkhovna Rada to intensify its work during this critical period for Ukraine.

Mayor Terekhov's appeal reflects deep concern over the functioning of state institutions during wartime and crisis. With severe energy shortages and heightened social demands from the population, an active parliament is a fundamental priority for ensuring national stability and citizen support. This situation highlights the vital importance of a cohesive and functioning legislature to effectively respond to the immense challenges the country faces.