Autumn could become a critical period for the western regions of Ukraine. The authorities of Ivano-Frankivsk have already begun active preparations for intensified enemy attacks, focusing efforts on protecting critical infrastructure and strengthening air defense.
This was reported by the city's mayor, Ruslan Martynkiv, in a video address published by RBC-Ukraine. According to him, Russia may significantly increase the intensity of strikes specifically in the western direction in September and October.
"The Enemy Will Strike the West"
Martynkiv did not go into details of the operational situation but clearly outlined priorities. "The enemy will strike specifically at the west of our country. Therefore, I cannot tell everything, but we are preparing for this challenge," the mayor stated. He directly indicated that the situation that occurred in Kyiv could be repeated in Ivano-Frankivsk, which requires immediate strengthening of air defense.
Furthermore, the mayor did not rule out the possibility of provocations from Belarus, which adds tension to the regional context. Despite the fact that large-scale shelling is not expected in the coming days, he urged residents to strictly respond to air raid alarms.
"There is no city in Ukraine that is completely safe," Martynkiv summarized, emphasizing that a false sense of security could cost lives.
Infrastructure on the Brink
In addition to military threats, city authorities are focused on preparing for the heating season. The main task is to complete work at heating plants. The mayor noted that although protecting the city from strikes formally does not fall within their direct duties, they are forced to take responsibility for the safety of residents.
An active process of decentralizing heat supply is already underway in the city. More than 400 buildings have been disconnected from centralized networks, new small heating plants are being built, and cogeneration units are being installed at certain facilities. This will allow for faster restoration of heat in case of damage to main pipelines.
Special attention is being paid to water supply. Authorities are preparing for possible strikes on pumping stations and sewage capacities. Alternative water sources—columns—are already being installed in microdistricts, which will ensure the population has water even if the centralized system is disconnected.
Reality Instead of Illusions
Ruslan Martynkiv urged residents not to ignore alarms and to be ready for any scenarios. His words sound like a warning: war has no borders, and even regions far from the front line can become a target at any moment.
The preparation of Ivano-Frankivsk is not just a reaction to current threats, but a strategic step towards increasing the city's resilience in the context of the ongoing conflict. And if autumn really becomes a time of escalation, then precisely such measures could save lives and preserve the functioning of the city.
