A view shows the logo of the Ukrainian state energy company Naftogaz outside its headquarters in central Kiev, Ukraine December 2, 2019.

Wedoany.com Report-Feb 26, Norway has agreed to fund Ukrainian purchases of natural gas, as announced by Ukraine’s Naftogaz company on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. This support comes as Ukraine increases imports to stabilize its energy system, strained by ongoing conflict with Russia. The financing is part of a 380 million euro ($400 million) aid package, facilitated through the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s energy security.

Roman Chumak, CEO of the state-owned Naftogaz Group, emphasized the significance of the aid, stating: “This assistance is critically important for the stability of Ukraine’s energy system.” He expressed appreciation to Norway and the EBRD for their ongoing support. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy highlighted the gas procurement grant in his nightly video address, noting it as part of a larger $3.5 billion assistance program.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, cited in the Naftogaz statement, underscored the need for energy support alongside military aid, saying: “That support, including funding for gas purchases, is therefore an important component of Norway's assistance.” The funding aims to help Ukraine maintain its energy supply amid disruptions caused by hostilities.

A senior industry source reported  last week that Ukraine plans to import up to 800 million cubic meters of gas from Europe in February and March. This increase follows a production decline of up to 40% in some instances, attributed to Russian missile strikes on energy infrastructure. While Russia has targeted Ukraine’s electricity sector since February 2022, recent weeks have seen intensified attacks on gas fields.

Naftogaz and DTEK, a major private energy firm, reported that their facilities suffered damage from Russian attacks at least twice in February. The Norwegian aid, channeled through the EBRD, seeks to address these challenges by ensuring Ukraine can secure gas from European markets. The initiative reflects a collaborative effort to support Ukraine’s energy needs during a period of significant strain.

The assistance package aligns with broader international efforts to bolster Ukraine’s resilience. Details on the exact allocation of the 380 million euros were not specified, but the focus remains on enabling gas imports to offset domestic shortfalls. This step is expected to help maintain energy stability for Ukrainian households and industries as the conflict continues to affect the country’s infrastructure.