Ukraine Warns of Insufficient Winter Power Without Increased Air Cover, According to Reuters

By John O’Donnell

BERLIN – Ukraine urgently requires enhanced air defenses within weeks to facilitate repairs to approximately half of its power infrastructure that has been damaged by Russian attacks. If these defenses are not secured, the country risks failing to meet the energy demands anticipated during the winter, according to the nation’s energy minister.

German Galushchenko reported that Russia is ramping up its strikes on Ukraine’s power systems, significantly complicating repair efforts and limiting energy supplies. Since March, missile and drone attacks targeting Ukraine’s energy sector have sharply increased, leading to the loss of half of its generating capacity. The result has been widespread rolling blackouts, including in the capital city, Kyiv.

"We have five months before winter. If we cannot ensure protection now… we won’t be able to carry out repairs. Operating at just 50% is insufficient to get through the winter," Galushchenko stated. "There is still a possibility for further attacks before winter arrives," he continued. "Even attempting to repair or restart some units without adequate air defense is largely futile because they could be destroyed again."

Winter brings the highest power demand in Ukraine, as temperatures often plunge below freezing.

Ukraine has been particularly advocating for the acquisition of U.S.-made Patriot missile defense systems, which have proven crucial for intercepting Russian ballistic and hypersonic missiles. Galushchenko indicated that Ukraine requires seven to nine such systems within a very short period.

"We’re currently operating under restrictions, even in summer, as we cannot compensate for the lost generating capacity. We also cannot rely on energy imports to fill the gap," he added, noting that Russia has also targeted renewable energy sites, including solar facilities.

Galushchenko made these comments during a conference in Berlin, where Ukraine aimed to revitalize waning support from Western allies. A summit in Switzerland is scheduled for this weekend, seeking a path to peace in Ukraine; however, it has been rejected by China and dismissed by Russia, which was not invited.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who participated in the Berlin conference, addressed the German parliament, although his speech faced a boycott from two parties, including the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which has gained support in recent European elections.

Galushchenko expressed concern that Europeans who support pro-Russian parties are failing to recognize the threats posed by Russia. "There seems to be an expectation that this conflict is distant and won’t affect you," he remarked. "That is a significant mistake. It may seem far from here, but you must understand that you could be next. Aggressors never cease."

As 2023 progresses, Ukraine continues to grapple with delays in military aid from the United States, heightened attacks on its infrastructure, and Moscow’s efforts to expand the frontline nearly 27 months after its extensive invasion.