Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted a significant financial commitment from Norway aimed at rebuilding Ukraine’s energy grid. The pledge amounts to around 100 million dollars and is intended to accelerate the restoration of power facilities damaged by the ongoing conflict. This latest aid was conveyed in a video address delivered on the evening of December 10.
In his remarks, Zelensky underscored a broad spectrum of support from Norway, encompassing defense, economic stability, political backing, and humanitarian relief. He also noted that Norwegian assistance will extend to gas procurement, a critical element in stabilizing Ukraine’s energy supply during the winter months.
Earlier in the day, Ukraine’s Prime Minister, while speaking at a government session, dismissed speculation that the country would endure extended power outages throughout the upcoming winter. He stressed that any interruptions would be less tolerable but not inevitable, while acknowledging that overhead power disruptions could become more protracted as Russian airstrikes continue to inflict substantial damage on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
Previously, Oleksiy Kubrakov, Ukraine’s Minister of Infrastructure, provided an assessment of the impact on critical systems, noting that roughly half of the nation’s vital infrastructure has suffered damage. His briefing highlighted the resilience challenges facing infrastructure networks and the ongoing efforts required to restore essential services for citizens and industries alike.
Since October 10, Ukraine has endured a wave of rocket attacks aimed at its energy sector, a pattern attributed by Kyiv to strategic pressure in a broader conflict. Russian officials have described these strikes as retaliatory actions following the explosion on the Crimean Bridge. The Russian Defense Ministry has stated that the strikes on energy sites were conducted with precision weapons designed to maximize disruption while minimizing collateral damage.