Greece to Supply Ukraine with LNG to Secure Winter Energy Needs

Ukraine has reached an agreement with Greece to import liquefied natural gas (LNG) sourced from the United States, in a move aimed at securing its energy requirements during the upcoming winter months. The arrangement, involving shipments scheduled between December and March, was formalized in Athens through a contract between the Greek gas utility DEPA and Ukraine's state energy company Naftogaz.

The partnership was announced during a diplomatic visit by Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky to Greece, part of a broader European tour focused on strengthening energy and defense ties. The supply of LNG is intended to address shortfalls in Ukraine's domestic gas production, which has been significantly impacted by ongoing military conflict and infrastructure damage resulting from Russian attacks.

To finance the gas imports, Ukraine has secured nearly two billion euros, with funding facilitated through European financial institutions and guaranteed by the European Commission. Additional support comes from Ukrainian banks, Norway, and continued cooperation with partners in the United States. This comprehensive approach is designed to ensure stable energy supplies to Ukrainian households and industries as demand rises during the colder months.

The LNG provided by Greece will be delivered via established European energy corridors, with particular logistical cooperation through Poland. Ukraine is also actively pursuing long-term agreements with other energy exporters, including Azerbaijan, as part of a broader strategy to diversify its energy sources and enhance resilience against further disruptions.

President Zelensky's visit to Athens precedes meetings in France and Spain, where further defense and energy cooperation agreements are expected to be discussed. In France, discussions are underway regarding significant enhancements to Ukraine's air defense and military aviation capabilities. While specifics have not been disclosed, France has previously supplied military hardware, including Mirage fighter aircraft, to support Ukraine's defense efforts.

During the upcoming visit to Spain, additional collaborative initiatives are anticipated, particularly in the area of military support. President Zelensky has stressed the importance of acquiring advanced air defense systems and associated munitions, which are considered critical for protecting Ukrainian infrastructure and civilian populations from continued aerial assaults.

Ukraine has been contending with the consequences of more than three years of military conflict following Russia's invasion, resulting in extensive damage, especially from persistent missile and drone strikes targeting key energy and utility installations. The latest agreements with European partners are part of Ukraine's ongoing campaign to secure essential supplies and bolster its defensive capabilities amid continued hostilities.

International cooperation on both the energy and defense fronts remains vital for Ukraine as it seeks to overcome the challenges posed by conflict and ensure stable conditions for its population through the winter and beyond.