G7 to assist Ukraine in repairing energy infrastructure damaged by Russia
Photo: G7 will help Ukraine restore its energy system (Getty Images)
Energy ministers of the G7 countries have condemned Russia's latest attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure and reaffirmed their readiness to help Kyiv restore its energy system, according to a statement released by Canada, which currently holds the G7 presidency.
In the document, the ministers emphasized that Russia's war against Ukraine has had a severe impact on the country's energy security and poses a threat to civilians. The G7 reaffirmed its "unwavering support for Ukraine in defending its territorial integrity, right to exist, and its freedom, sovereignty and independence."
"We share our united support for Ukraine and the Ukrainian people, who have shown bravery and resilience in the face of continued adversity," the statement said.
The ministers condemned recent Russian strikes on gas infrastructure that endangered civilian lives and undermined energy security.
They also praised the courage of Ukrainian energy workers who continue to restore electricity and heating to communities despite the risks.
The G7 said it would continue working to meet Ukraine's energy needs, both for its economy and its citizens. In particular, the countries pledged to:
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coordinate assistance through the G7+ Ukraine Coordination Group and the Ukraine Energy Support Fund;
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support the protection of energy infrastructure;
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cooperate with the IAEA to ensure nuclear safety;
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promote diversification of energy supply chains;
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and support the development of a decentralized and resilient Ukrainian energy system.
The G7 also stressed that rebuilding Ukraine is "an enormous yet critical task" that requires the involvement of both the public and private sectors. The ministers said Ukraine could become a regional model of energy security and innovation.
To achieve this, the G7 will continue providing financial assistance, credit lines, risk insurance, and support for private investment. This aid is being coordinated through the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the Ukraine Donor Platform.
In addition, the G7 reiterated its commitment to sanctions aimed at limiting Russia's energy revenues and pledged to intensify efforts against the "shadow tanker fleet" used by Moscow to evade restrictions.
"We recognize existing bilateral and multilateral actions in support of Ukraine’s sovereign decision to accelerate the development of a decentralized energy system," the ministers said in the joint statement.
In conclusion, the G7 welcomed the adoption of the Joint Statement on Ukraine's Energy Security, signed by Australia and Ukraine.
Russian strikes on Ukraine on October 31
As a reminder, during the night of October 31, Russian forces attacked energy facilities in the Odesa region with strike drones, causing a fire.
It was also reported that Russia launched a series of drone strikes on Sumy. Fifteen people, including children, were injured and sought medical help.
Details on where and how power outages occurred across Ukraine can be found in RBC-Ukraine's report.
Meanwhile, amid these attacks, the Georgian government announced its decision to support Ukraine by sending generators to help cope with frequent power outages caused by Russian strikes on energy infrastructure. The order to send the generators was signed by Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze.
