Ukraine faces winter gas crisis amid record-low reserves
Ukrainians may be forced to import gas for the upcoming winter due to record-low reserves, according to Serhiy Makohon, the former head of Ukraine's independent Gas Transmission System Operator. This situation results from Russian missile attacks that have damaged production facilities in the eastern part of the country.
Ukraine is facing a significant challenge related to the need to import gas for the upcoming winter season of 2025-26. Serhiy Makohon announced on Telegram that the country may need to import as much as 221 billion cubic feet of gas due to historically low reserves.
Makohon explained that this situation is a consequence of Russian missile attacks that damaged production facilities in eastern Ukraine. As a result, the country had to utilize its gas reserves and increase imports during the winter and spring periods.
Notably, after discussions held separately by the United States with delegations from Ukraine and Russia on March 23-25 in Saudi Arabia, it was announced that Kyiv and Moscow agreed to a complete ban on mutual attacks on energy infrastructure.
Record-low gas reserves
According to data from Gas Infrastructure Europe (GIE), Ukraine's gas reserves stood at 25 billion cubic feet as of April 16, which constitutes only 2.22 percent of full storage capacity.
Makohon emphasized that Ukraine should accumulate reserves at a level of at least 452 billion cubic feet, with 162 billion cubic feet needed to maintain adequate pressure in the tanks.
The expert noted that considering domestic production, Ukraine will need to import at least 194 billion cubic feet of gas, preferably 221 billion.
Meanwhile, the Ukrainian company Naftohaz predicts the need to import a smaller amount, totaling 162 billion cubic feet of gas. Even this amount could cost Ukraine up to 3 billion dollars, while current funds allow for the purchase of only 14 billion cubic feet of gas.
