Zelenskiy Claims Russia Attacked Gas Facilities Critical to EU Supply Security

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has reported a Russian attack on his country’s energy sector, specifically targeting gas facilities crucial for supplying the European Union. The attack comes as Russia continues to supply gas to the EU through Ukraine under a transit deal set to expire in December.

Zelenskiy, who is seeking defensive weapons systems from international partners, stated that Ukrainian forces were able to intercept some of the 34 Russian missiles launched during the attack. While he did not specify which facilities were targeted, he emphasized the importance of these gas facilities for safe delivery to the EU.

Despite the attack, Ukraine’s state-run oil and gas firm Naftogaz confirmed that no one was injured, and supplies to Ukrainian consumers and clients remained unaffected. However, Maksym Kozytskyi, the governor of Lviv region, reported damage to critical energy infrastructure objects in Stryi and Chervonohrad districts, which caught fire but were quickly extinguished by emergency services.

Zelenskiy reiterated his plea for defensive missiles, particularly Patriot systems, stating that Ukraine needed at least seven defensive systems to counter future attacks. He criticized the calculated nature of the strike by Russian forces, designed to challenge Ukraine’s air defense system.

The situation remains tense as Ukraine continues to navigate escalating tensions with Russia, seeking support from the international community to defend its sovereignty and protect its energy infrastructure.