Ministries of Energy and Internal Affairs conduct large-scale exercises to test energy sector’s emergency preparedness

On 13 August, Ukraine launched joint tactical-special exercises involving the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the State Emergency Service, the National Police, the National Guard, critical infrastructure operators, regional military administrations, and other partners responsible for security at energy facilities.

The exercises will take place across 17 regions at 34 energy infrastructure sites. Each site will test effective coordination among participants, as well as the readiness of forces, equipment, and response protocols. Over 24 days, the drills will be conducted in regions and the city of Kyiv where security conditions allow.

The primary goal is to counter energy-related threats proactively and enhance response times to emergencies, a key priority in preparing for the 2025–2026 heating season.

“This is our fourth heating season amid full-scale invasion. Despite russian aggression, we are approaching it with sufficient generating capacity, developing distributed generation in every region, conducting repair campaigns, and expanding fuel import and export capabilities,” said Ukraine’s Minister of Energy, Svitlana Grynchuk.

She emphasised that the top priority is the security of energy facilities and improving emergency response to mitigate consequences swiftly.

“At a recent interagency meeting with Minister of Internal Affairs Ihor Klymenko, law enforcement, and energy companies, we discussed advanced physical protection mechanisms. We are strengthening air defence, implementing anti-drone systems, and updating response protocols. Regardless of geopolitical developments, we must do everything possible to ensure Ukrainians have warm and lit homes this winter,” Svitlana Grynchuk stressed.

A major challenge is the widespread use of drones, with up to 90% of attacks this year carried out by UAVs. This requires focusing on new technologies and redirecting resources to procure effective anti-drone systems. Protecting personnel is also a priority, with the establishment of reliable shelters for energy facility workers being critical.

Svitlana Grynchuk thanked the Ministry of Internal Affairs and law enforcement for their deep engagement with energy security issues and readiness to act jointly in crisis situations.