- Russian missile strikes on Ukraine’s state-owned gas assets have reduced Naftogaz’s output by up to one-third, forcing the country to import gas from the EU.
- Ukraine will need to buy 1 billion cubic meters of gas, impacting supply amid high European gas prices.
- Stockpiles remain stable, but Naftogaz plans imports to prepare for future war-related challenges.
Russian missile strikes have severely impacted Naftogaz Group, Ukraine’s primary natural gas producer, cutting its output by as much as a third. With gas demand rising and European futures nearing two-year highs, Ukraine is now importing costly replacement fuel from the EU. While government officials previously ruled out imports, the war’s continued toll on energy infrastructure has forced a policy shift, reports Bloomberg.
Impact on Ukraine’s Gas Production and Imports
Ukraine’s natural gas imports have hit their lowest levels since record-keeping began, with just 724 million cubic meters received in 2024.
A third of that was later re-exported to Western neighbors that rely on Ukraine’s storage facilities. Despite these challenges, Naftogaz increased production by 5% last year, but recent attacks have made the situation more precarious.
Gas Flow Resumes, But Uncertainty Remains
In response to the crisis, Ukraine has begun receiving gas from Slovakia through the Budince cross-border pipeline, which had been inactive since October.
Slovakia, which supports resuming Ukraine’s gas transit, has also started importing Russian gas via Turkey this month.
However, with Russian airstrikes continuing, the stability of future supply remains uncertain.
Naftogaz’s Response and Future Outlook
Despite the setbacks, Naftogaz insists that gas supplies to customers remain unaffected. CEO Roman Chumak reassured citizens that stockpiles are sufficient for winter operations, but the company will continue importing gas as a precaution.
Russia’s repeated attacks on energy infrastructure, including gas storage sites, mean that Ukraine must prepare for future disruptions.
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Source: Bloomberg
