In Ukraine, a strategy for purchasing imported gas will be introduced, - Shmyhal

In Ukraine, a strategy for purchasing imported gas will be introduced, - Shmyhal

Ukraine in the current and next heating season relies on domestically-produced gas, but the possibility of imports is not excluded. For this, Naftogaz of Ukraine plans to develop a separate procurement strategy to cover the deficit in the gas transmission system.

This was reported by the Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal following the meeting of the Anti-Crisis Energy Headquarters on February 18. The meeting took place after gas reserves in Ukraine were reduced to a record low level for February – less than 10% of storage capacity, while Russia intensified attacks on gas infrastructure.

"The government is betting on Ukrainian gas, so it is necessary to constantly increase domestic production. Naftogaz has been instructed to prepare a gas import strategy in case of additional need to cover a potential deficit in the gas transmission system. Ukraine must be prepared for all possible scenarios," Shmyhal stated.

Moreover, according to the head of the government, preparations for the next autumn-winter period have already begun. Planned volumes of Ukrainian gas production and storage filling for this year are being determined. "The main task for all involved is to ensure uninterrupted gas supply for households," the Prime Minister assured.

Shmyhal also reported that during the meeting special attention was given to the protection and restoration of gas infrastructure under Russian shelling. This specifically concerns underground gas storage facilities.

"No details here. The Ministry of Energy has been instructed to coordinate this process together with the military," the Prime Minister noted.

It should be noted that in Ukraine in February 2025, historically low gas reserves were recorded in storage – for the first time, the level dropped to less than 10% of storage capacity. This poses risks of a serious deficit.

And although fake information about planned shutdown schedules is being actively spread online, even in the worst-case scenario, no restrictions for the population are planned. However, under conditions of persistent low temperatures, it may be necessary to increase gas imports.