Ukraine will face gas shortage this year: Energy Ministry’s statement

Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko states that Ukraine will need at least an additional 1 billion cubic meters of gas by the end of 2025, possibly more, depending on the volumes remaining at the end of the heating season, taking into account Russian attacks on gas infrastructure.

He discussed this in a brief interview with the "Interfax-Ukraine" news agency.

According to him, Russian shelling has impacted Ukraine’s domestic gas production.

"I cannot disclose figures. It has a serious impact. But this is temporary. We understand how to handle it," the minister assured.

He emphasized that, in addition to its own funds, Naftogaz has access to credit lines, including a €200 million EBRD credit line.

Halushchenko also mentioned the possibility of Naftogaz receiving grant funds for gas purchases, as well as gas supplies in the form of grants.

"Plus, potential grant funds will be available. We are also discussing with partners the possibility of receiving gas as a grant. That would also be a solution," he explained.

Regarding gas prices, he noted that the company buys gas at the current market price.

"And all these claims that we should have bought it earlier are no longer relevant. In the '90s, gas was even cheaper. Should we have bought it back then?" Halushchenko remarked.

He also noted that Ukraine had not received any proposals from the EU regarding the transit of Russian gas through its territory.

"Slovakia receives Azerbaijani gas - currently 400 million cubic meters per month. But I believe that if necessary, Azerbaijan could increase these volumes," the minister added.

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