Ukraine loses half of its gas production due to Russian attacks: the government responds with quick action and imports

The powerful missile strikes that Ukraine suffered this winter from Russia led to catastrophic losses in the gas production sector - the country lost almost 50% of its own natural gas production. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced this on April 29 at a regular government meeting, outlining ways to compensate for the losses.

According to the head of the Cabinet of Ministers, the Russian aggressor launched a series of targeted strikes on Ukrainian gas production infrastructure facilities during the coldest period of the year. These attacks seriously undermined the state's energy security, effectively destroying half of the gas production capacity that the country was counting on during the heating season.

In response, the Ukrainian government is taking measures to quickly restore the industry. In particular, it is planned to create the most favorable conditions for private oil and gas producing companies. This involves simplifying procedures for installing energy storage systems and constructing facilities necessary for connecting to the gas transportation system. This should stimulate production growth and reduce dependence on imports.

Along with this, the Cabinet of Ministers is working on compensating for losses due to the purchase of gas from abroad. Ukraine has already signed an agreement with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development for 270 million euros, and has also received a grant of 140 million euros from the Norwegian government. As the Prime Minister reported, these funds will allow purchasing about 1 billion cubic meters of gas to guarantee heat and light in the homes of Ukrainians next winter.

Already, according to Shmyhal, Ukraine has contracted 1.5 billion cubic meters of gas for 2025. Additionally, Naftogaz will purchase another 300 million cubic meters of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Polish energy company Orlen, which will be an important step in diversifying supply sources.

Despite the critical situation, Naftogaz assures that it is fully in control of the situation. Although, as Reuters reports, Ukraine has lost approximately 40% of its own production as a result of Russian strikes, the supply system remains stable. The latest blow was an attack in Poltava region in late March, when Naftogaz facilities were damaged despite Moscow’s ban on striking energy facilities.