Ukraine’s readiness for the heating season is close to 100%. According to information provided by the Kyiv Regional Military Administration, communities in Kyiv region are already fully prepared for the autumn-winter period. This was stated by Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal during a meeting of the Presidium of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities under the President of Ukraine, which was dedicated to current issues in Kyiv region.

The meeting was held on 16 October under the chairmanship of Andriy Yermak, Head of the Presidential Office, and was attended by Ruslan Stefanchuk, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada, Penny Pritzker, U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine’s Economic Recovery, government officials, MPs, representatives of the regional military administration and local self-government.

“We are facing a difficult winter. Thanks to the support of our partners, we have come through the most difficult heating season in our history together. This winter, we have not only financial support, but also support for energy recovery. The United States has already committed USD 522 million to purchase relevant energy equipment and to support and protect our energy system,” the Head of Government said.

The Prime Minister noted that Ukraine was almost 100% ready for the heating season. All 9 units of nuclear power plants will be in operation during the autumn-winter period.

“In general, we have already added 1.5 GW of capacity out of the planned 1.7 GW in the entire power system. We have sufficient gas resources in storage facilities – 15.8 billion cubic metres. At the same time, we plan to reach the level of 16.5 bcm, which is 2 bcm more than planned, to get through this winter safely,” Denys Shmyhal said.

The Head of Government stressed that the campaign for active and passive protection of energy facilities, in particular in Kyiv region, was ongoing. According to him, Kyiv region is also among the leaders in the implementation of restoration projects.

“We have allocated a total of UAH 62 billion to the regions for restoration. At the same time, the towns of Kyiv region that have suffered most from russian aggression receive support from the state budget, the regional budget and the United24 project,” the Prime Minister said.

Denys Shmyhal added that demining was among the priorities for recovery, where the United States was providing significant assistance. In particular, a special training centre has been set up to train deminers.

An important element of economic recovery, according to the Prime Minister, is support for businesses. He noted that Ukraine was working fruitfully with the United States, in particular USAID, on a programme to support small and medium-sized businesses: “I am convinced that we will actively develop this area, and Kyiv region will also be a leader in these projects.”