**EU Provides Ukraine with €86 Million to Protect Energy Infrastructure**
The European Investment Bank (EIB) has given Ukraine’s state grid operator, Ukrenergo, 86 million euros ($89.5 million) to protect the country’s energy infrastructure from drone attacks.
Russia has been targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure for a while now. Recently, Russia launched one of its largest attacks on Ukraine’s electric grid, with 90 missiles and 200 drones aimed at thermal power plants.
**Protecting Energy Infrastructure**
The funding will be used to build anti-drone shelters that protect electricity transmission equipment. This will make Ukraine’s energy grid more reliable and resilient.
“This €86 million investment is an important step in fortifying Ukraine’s energy infrastructure against ongoing military aggression,” said EIB Vice-President Teresa Czerwinska.
**Emergency Energy Projects**
The investment marks the first measures in the EIB’s Ukraine Energy Rescue Plan. This plan aims to provide up to 600 million euros ($624 million) in financing for emergency energy projects across public and private sectors.
**Russia’s Ongoing Attacks**
Despite international efforts, Russia continues to attack Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Energy operators in Ukraine are forced to impose scheduled or emergency blackouts due to these attacks.
The U.S. is planning to impose additional sanctions on Russian oil by the end of the year. Ukraine’s National Securities and Stock Market Commission has also announced a ban on withdrawing foreign issuer securities, effective January 1.
**International Support**
The EIB funding comes as part of international efforts to support Ukraine in its time of need. The U.S. and other countries have provided significant military aid to Ukraine, with Germany ranking second after the U.S.