Russian Attacks on Ukraine’s Gas Infrastructure: A New Phase in the Energy Conflict
In the early hours of Tuesday, October 28, Russian forces launched another strike on Ukraine’s gas infrastructure in the Poltava region, marking the seventh such attack since the beginning of the month.
Kyiv’s officials, including Serhiy Koretsky, chairman of Naftogaz Ukraine, confirmed that specialists are now assessing the damage and beginning repair work.
Fortunately, no casualties have been reported.
These targeted strikes aim solely at depriving Ukrainians of gas and heat, serving broader strategic objectives to destabilize Ukraine’s energy sector.
Notably, Ukraine lost about 40% of its gas production capacity in February due to Russian missile attacks.
As of mid-September, underground gas reserves in Ukraine surpassed last year’s figures for the first time since January, reaching over 12 billion cubic meters.
However, experts warn that this volume remains insufficient to fully meet the winter’s demands.
Sergey Makogon, a former head of the Gas Transmission System Operator of Ukraine, explores the challenges and risks facing Ukraine as it prepares for the heating season, emphasizing the urgent need for strategic measures to ensure energy security amidst ongoing hostilities.