Ukraine’s Minister of Energy, German Galushchenko, met with Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA) during a working visit to Paris. The discussions focused on the challenges that russia’s targeted attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure pose risks to global nuclear security, as well as potential support measures to help restore Ukraine's energy sector.
German Galushchenko emphasized that energy remains a primary target for the enemy, with russia sparing no expense on advanced weaponry, including ballistic missiles, to inflict maximum damage on Ukraine's energy infrastructure.
“In their efforts to destroy as many energy facilities as possible, they disregard the risks involved. They don’t consider nuclear safety when attacking substations crucial to the operation of nuclear power plants, nor when deploying drones and missiles over nuclear sites. russia is endangering not only Ukraine but the entire world, as a blackout at an active nuclear power plant could lead to a Fukushima-like scenario,” he pointed out.
The Minister noted the importance of IAEA monitoring missions at Ukrainian substations, which are critical to nuclear plant operations, in helping to avoid such outcomes. German Galushchenko updated Fatih Birol on the current state of Ukraine's energy system, the successful completion of the largest repair campaign on energy facilities in Ukraine’s history, and preparations for the upcoming autumn-winter season.
The parties also discussed the critical need to significantly increase the limits on commercial electricity trade between Ukraine and the EU, which would add resilience to Ukraine’s energy system — especially vital for navigating the challenging winter of 2024/2025.
The Minister expressed his gratitude to the IEA Executive Director for the professional report, "Ukraine’s Energy Security and the Coming Winter," prepared by IEA experts. The report includes ten key measures and recommendations for international partners on strengthening Ukraine’s energy security and enhancing the resilience of the energy system in the face of new threats.
German Galushchenko also took part in a meeting of the IEA Governers Board, where he thanked member countries for their support of Ukraine’s energy sector, the equipment provided, and contributions to the Ukraine Energy Support Fund, which enable the restoration of energy facilities and preparations for winter.
