Naftogaz of Ukraine has appealed to the U.S. for funding to purchase gas in the amount of $600 million, necessary for stable passage through the heating season. This was reported by the company's chairman, Serhiy Koretsky, in an interview with the Associated Press.
Naftogaz has already managed to secure 70% of the required $2 billion, mainly through European loans and grant funding. According to Koretsky, the company is trying to attract the remaining 30% through a loan from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation and the U.S. Export-Import Bank. He emphasized that these funds are needed "even the day before yesterday," as time is required for purchasing, transporting, and storing gas.
Threat from Russia
Koretsky also noted that Naftogaz imports 25-30 million cubic meters of gas daily to avoid significant price fluctuations in Ukraine and Europe caused by large and unpredictable purchases. This has become particularly relevant amid the increasing number of attacks on Ukraine's gas infrastructure from Russia, which, according to unofficial sources, has destroyed approximately 60% of the country's gas production.
In light of Russia's aggressive actions, Naftogaz has sought assistance from international financial institutions, as increasing gas imports has become critically important for ensuring warmth and energy during the winter period, given that enemy attacks are often aimed at the company's facilities.
Situation with Ukraine's Gas Facilities
Large-scale strikes on gas infrastructure, particularly on Naftogaz facilities, intensified in the autumn. On October 16, the sixth strike against critical infrastructure facilities occurred. The Security Service of Ukraine has already thwarted an attempted terrorist act targeting gas pipelines in the Kharkiv and Poltava regions.
Against the backdrop of these events, Naftogaz continues to seek international support while adapting to new realities, aiming to ensure Ukraine's energy independence and security under extremely challenging conditions.
