**Ukraine Signs LNG Deal with Poland’s Orlen**
The largest state-owned energy company in Ukraine, Naftogaz, has signed a contract to buy approximately 100 million cubic meters of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Poland’s petroleum refineries company, Orlen. This deal was announced on March 7.
Ukraine is struggling to get enough gas due to Russian attacks on its energy infrastructure. Russia has been targeting Ukraine’s gas grid, causing domestic gas production to decline. To make up for the shortage, Ukraine needs to import more gas.
The agreement between Naftogaz and Orlen includes a strategic cooperation document on LNG supply. This means that both companies will work together to ensure a stable supply of gas to Ukraine.
Naftogaz’s acting CEO, Roman Chumak, said that partnering with Orlen “strengthens energy security, diversifies supply routes, and accelerates Ukraine’s integration into the European gas market.”
The gas will be transported from Lithuania to Poland and then on to Ukraine. This deal is considered “mutually beneficial” by Robert Soszynski, vice president of Polish Orlen.
**Why is this important?**
Russia has been attacking Ukraine’s energy infrastructure for some time now. As a result, Ukraine’s domestic gas production has declined significantly. The country needs to import more gas to meet its needs. This deal with Poland’s Orlen will help Ukraine get the gas it needs.
Before the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the country produced around 52 million cubic meters of gas per day. However, in winter, Ukraine needed up to 140 million cubic meters of gas. Russian attacks have further reduced Ukraine’s domestic gas output, making imports even more necessary.
Ukraine plans to import about 3.5 billion cubic meters of gas for the upcoming heating season due to ongoing Russian attacks on its energy infrastructure. This deal with Orlen is an important step towards ensuring a stable supply of gas to Ukraine.
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