The European Investment Bank (EIB) gave Ukraine’s state energy company Naftogaz a €300 million loan to help the country get through another winter. The money will help buy gas and keep the lights on for households and businesses. Russia has been hitting Ukraine’s power plants and heating systems since the war started. Naftogaz also promised to spend the same amount on clean energy projects. This marks Ukraine’s fourth winter since Russia invaded in February 2022.
Ukrainian cities have faced blackouts and heating cuts throughout the war. Russian missiles and drones target power stations almost daily, leaving millions without electricity for hours or days. Previous winters brought emergency shutdowns across major cities like Kyiv and Kharkiv. International partners have been sending generators and repair equipment to help Ukraine fix damaged infrastructure. The attacks aim to break civilian morale and make daily life unbearable.
EIB President Nadia Calviño said the loan “will help reinforce Ukraine’s energy security during the winter.” Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko called it proof of Ukraine’s partnership with European institutions. She said hundreds of thousands of households will get stable heat this winter because of the deal. The EU budget backs the loan through its Ukraine Investment Framework. Other European banks like the EBRD are also lending money to help Ukraine’s energy sector survive.
The deal shows Europe’s continued support for Ukraine while also planning for the country’s future in the EU. Naftogaz CEO Sergii Koretskyi thanked European partners for their “trust and solidarity.” The clean energy commitment means Ukraine can rebuild better instead of just replacing old infrastructure. Multiple European institutions are working together to help Ukraine rather than each doing separate projects. The goal is to keep Ukraine running now while preparing for EU membership later.
