Deputy Minister of Energy of Ukraine Roman Andarak met with representatives of the U.S. Congress and Senior Director of the Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Center John Herbst as part of the Atlantic Council’s training programme for Congressional staff and aides.

During the meeting, the Ukrainian side briefed the American delegation on the situation in Ukraine’s energy system after the massive attacks on civilian energy infrastructure and the challenges faced by the energy sector. “Ukrainian energy infrastructure remains the main target of enemy shelling, and the massive attack on 26 August was one of the most destructive since the beginning of the war,” said Roman Andarak.

In particular, the key areas of work now include prompt restoration of damaged infrastructure, development of distributed generation, provision of critical facilities with backup power sources and strengthening the protection of energy facilities. The Deputy Minister noted that international support in these areas was crucial for preparing for and ensuring a stable heating season.

Roman Andarak expressed his gratitude to the members of the U.S. delegation for the strong and unwavering support of Ukraine’s energy sector in times of war.

In turn, John Herbst, Senior Director of the Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Center, noted that such meetings are very helpful, as they allow the U.S. Congressional staff to better understand the most pressing needs of the Ukrainian energy sector and to communicate this information promptly to members of Congress.