The Interview Vitali Klitschko, Mayor of Kyiv: ‘We're fighting to survive’
Jan 30, 2026
Vitali Klitschko, former world heavyweight boxing champion turned Kyiv mayor, leads the city through war and reconstruction. He discusses Kyiv as a primary Russian target, nightly attacks and civilian strain, decisions on evacuations and elections during conflict, relations with national leaders, and his vision for a greener, rebuilt Kyiv once peace returns.
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Kyiv As The Main Target
- Vitaliy Klitschko says Kyiv is the primary Russian target, not just Donetsk or Crimea.
- He argues attacks aim to break Ukrainian resistance by destroying the capital's stability and morale.
Human Cost And City Damage
- Vitaliy Klitschko recounts civilian deaths and massive housing damage in Kyiv since the invasion.
- He says over 300 civilians, including 30 children, died and nearly 2,000 apartment buildings were destroyed.
Temporarily Relocate If Services Fail
- Vitaliy Klitschko advises citizens without heat or water to temporarily stay with friends or relatives outside Kyiv.
- He says this eases pressure on city infrastructure and helps maintain services for others.