Ukrainian energy companies urge international partners to speed up aid ahead of winter
A number of Ukrainian energy companies have called on international partners to speed up assistance, particularly in air defense, and step up sanctions pressure on Russia.
Ukrainian energy firms have implored their global allies to expedite aid as the country braces for the upcoming winter, according to a collective statement released by Naftogaz Group, Ukrenergo, Energoatom, the Gas Transmission System Operator of Ukraine (GTSOU), and Ukrhydroenergo. The energy sector acknowledges Russia's ongoing assaults on Ukraine's power generation and transmission infrastructure, gas reserves, storage facilities, transportation networks, and heating systems, which also endanger the security of nuclear and radiological power sources crucial for the safe operation of Ukraine's nuclear reactors.
The approaching winter is anticipated to be among the most challenging since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion. Ukrainian energy providers and their staff continue to repair damaged facilities and sustain energy supplies amidst extremely challenging conditions. However, the fact that Ukraine's energy system remains operational does not imply it is secure. Each new attack exacerbates the damage and intensifies the burden on equipment, personnel, and financial resources.
The companies emphasized that restoration work alone cannot indefinitely offset the effects of systematic destruction. Energy security extends beyond national boundaries, implying that safeguarding Ukraine's energy infrastructure will bolster Europe's collective security. The firms identified five priority areas for assistance: protecting critical energy infrastructure by enhancing air defense and physical security, particularly at facilities essential for nuclear and radiological safety; accelerating emergency aid through funding, supplies, and installation of equipment; ensuring the importation of gas and electricity during the winter; mobilizing grants, concessional financing, guarantees, and war-risk insurance to support urgent repairs and investment; and strengthening sanctions against Russia, specifically targeting its oil and gas sector.
The statement's authors expressed deep gratitude to governments, international organizations, financial institutions, and private partners for their support that has enabled Ukraine's energy system to function. They stressed that the magnitude and speed of international assistance must align with the scale and pace of Russian attacks, as well as the urgency of Ukraine's needs.
Written by urgent.news from Ukrinform - Economy's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
