**Russia’s Attacks on Ukraine’s Energy Infrastructure Continue**
Since the start of the war in 2022, Russia has targeted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. This led to significant damage and disruption, especially during a severe attack on August 26, 2024. On that day, Russia launched 236 missiles and drones, leaving nearly four million Ukrainians without power.
**International Help Arrives**
The European Commission is giving €62.8 million to restore 1.8 GW of energy capacity. This will help protect power plants from extreme weather conditions during the upcoming winter. The money will also ensure a steady power supply for over two million Ukrainians.
The US government has allocated $46.1 million to buy control systems and new transformers, which are crucial for providing electricity. US Assistant Secretary of State Geoffrey Pyatt said: “We’re proud to support Ukraine’s energy resilience with this critical aid package.”
**Previous US Help**
In the past, the US provided DTEK, a Ukrainian company, with equipment like bucket trucks, pickups, and electrical cables through USAID. This helped repair crews restore power.
DTEK’s head, Maksym Tymchenko, thanked the US, European Commission, and Ukraine’s Ministry of Energy leadership for their support. He said no country has faced such attacks on its energy system but with help from partners, they continue to stand strong against Russia’s energy terror.
**Russia’s Attacks Have Devastating Consequences**
Russian attacks have destroyed nearly 90% of DTEK’s generating capacity. On November 17, missile strikes targeted three out of five operational thermal power plants owned by DTEK. This left one still out of service and hit distribution stations.
The Guardian reported that Ukraine’s energy grid is at a “heightened risk of catastrophic power failure.” Moscow’s strikes also targeted substations critical to the operation of Ukraine’s nuclear power plants, increasing the risk of reactors being left without power and becoming unstable.
**Energy Community Reassures**
In a recent letter, the Energy Community stated that ongoing certification efforts for “Ukrenergo” will not affect Ukraine’s ability to import electricity from the EU this winter. This counters previous warnings of potential disruptions.
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