Minister of Energy of Ukraine German Galushchenko took part in the panel discussion "Impact of the war in Ukraine on the energy sector", organized on the occasion of the association of Ukraine with the International Energy Agency. The event was also attended by IEA Executive Director Dr. Fatih Birol, Polish Minister of Climate and Environment Anna Moskwa, and Deputy Secretary at the U.S. Department of Energy David Turk.

German Galushchenko emphasized that only the solidarity of European states will make it possible to resist russian blackmail in the energy sector.

"russia is using gas to separate us. But the temporary benefit while purchasing gas contributes to the continuation of russian influence on European countries. We must unite to destroy the opportunity for blackmail and manipulation by russian. Only together can we win this war. The next winter should be the last when russia will still be able to put forward its demands in the gas sector," the Minister said.

He emphasized that now, due to the situation on the gas market, russia can receive even more money by selling less gas.

German Galushchenko called on European countries to use Ukrainian gas storage facilities to store gas reserves, as this will help ensure a stable gas supply in winter.

"We have the largest USF in Europe. They are safe, and it is commercially profitable to store gas in them," the Minister noted.

In addition, Ukraine can help replace russian coal and gas by exporting electricity to Europe.

"Currently we have a surplus of electricity and the technical possibility to significantly increase the export of electricity. Commercial trade between Ukraine and Europe will be mutually beneficial, because we can supply electricity at lower prices, and in return we will receive funds that are so necessary for our electricity market, given it has suffered from the destruction of infrastructure and generating capacities due to hostilities and a drop in consumption due to the war," noted German Galushchenko.

He assured that Ukraine stands ready to take an active part in strengthening the energy security of the European region, and joining the International Energy Agency will become the basis for deepening cooperation between the IEA member states to build a safe and clean energy future.