Ukraine halts gas industry after Russian attacks

The Ukrainian state energy company Naftogaz announced that several large gas industry facilities had to cease operations after suffering damage from Russian attacks in various regions. As a result, Kyiv is forced to import more gas from abroad.

According to estimates by the former head of the gas transit operator Serhiy Makogon, the country will need at least 6.3 billion cubic meters of gas for the winter of 2025/2026. The Ministry of Energy expects imports to be lower (4.6 billion cubic meters), but acknowledges that further attacks could necessitate additional purchases or restrictions on supplies to industry and combined heat and power plants.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Russia fired more than 300 drones and dozens of missiles on Thursday night. The attacks were primarily aimed at energy infrastructure that ensures the production and distribution of gas.

Zelensky plans to meet with US President Donald Trump in Washington this week. The talks are also expected to cover energy cooperation and arms deliveries, including Tomahawk long-range missiles and Patriot air defense systems.

(reuters, sie)