Rescue divers carried out a unique underwater operation after shelling of the capital`s thermal power plant
Divers from Ukraine's State Emergency Service carried out a unique underwater special operation in extreme weather conditions after Russian shelling of one of the capital's thermal power plants. Due to damage to a pipe, the facility was flooded, posing a serious threat to the repair of equipment on which the heat and electricity supply of thousands of people depends.
The details of the operation were announced on 22 January by the Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine, Ihor Klymenko. According to him, divers worked in icy water at temperatures of up to 15 degrees below zero and immediately began to repair the damage. The underwater work lasted six days in a row and was completed successfully. The water leak was completely stopped, allowing energy workers to continue restoration efforts.
The minister stressed that such a special operation required a high level of professionalism, endurance and coordinated action. He publicly thanked the divers of the State Emergency Service for their dedicated service and determination in the extremely difficult conditions of wartime.
Klymenko also mentioned the state awards that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy gave to the people who took part in the operation. Artem Orlov, Denys Frolov and Mykhailo Khizhnyak were awarded the Order of Courage, Third Class. Andriy Vlasenko received the Order of Danylo Halytskyi, and Anton Gaitan was awarded the Defender of the Fatherland medal.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs emphasises that this operation was an example of responsibility and courage, thanks to which the country's critical infrastructure continues to function even during wartime and in conditions of severe frost.
Source: Ministry of Internal Affairs
State Emergency Service of Ukraine, Klymenko, Zelensky
