Ukraine aims to inject at least 13 billion cubic meters of gas into underground storage ahead of the next heating season, while seeking more than €5 billion from international partners to bolster energy security, First Vice Prime Minister and Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal said following a National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) meeting on winter preparations, Ukrinform reports.
“An essential part of preparing for winter is filling gas storage. We are targeting at least 13 billion cubic meters,” Shmyhal said, noting that the current heating season remains stable in terms of gas availability and imports continue.
The minister added that Ukraine is working with partners to secure over €5 billion at the next “energy Ramstein” meeting to support preparation for the upcoming winter. Discussions will continue through the first half of March.
Shmyhal also emphasized the need to create a strategic reserve of energy equipment to withstand future attacks.
“We are working to build a stockpile three times larger than the equipment destroyed by Russia this winter. This equipment will be stored both in Ukraine and abroad,” he said.
Ukraine is coordinating with international partners not only to order new equipment but also to accelerate procurement processes, including direct purchases similar to those used for weapons acquisition.
Another priority is strengthening the protection of electricity and gas infrastructure. Measures include constructing reinforced shelters or relocating critical equipment underground to ensure uninterrupted energy supply during emergencies.
