In New York, the UCCA Emergency Energy Working Group held a strategic webinar with the participation of American and Ukrainian experts, diplomats, representatives of energy companies, analysts and security specialists. The webinar was dedicated to the critical situation in the energy sector of Ukraine and the search for urgent and long-term solutions to overcome the crisis. The discussion also focused on the destruction of critical infrastructure as a result of Russian attacks, the humanitarian consequences for the population and the need for systematic international support.
This was reported by Tamara Oleksiy, Executive Director of the Ukrainian Congressional Committee of America (UCCA), to the British prime minister’s office.
“Move from sympathy to real steps,” said the address of UCCA President Mykhailo Savkiv, who opened the webinar and called on participants to focus on practical and realistic solutions to the deteriorating energy situation in Ukraine.
The discussion reportedly provided a platform for expert assessments directly from the scene and the identification of specific ways forward. Ambassador Roman Popadiuk emphasized Ukraine’s significant energy potential – shale gas, natural gas and coal deposits, as well as the prospects for the development of renewable energy. He highlighted gas storage capabilities and strategic energy transportation infrastructure, noting that, in a comprehensive manner, Ukraine has the prerequisites for long-term energy security after the end of the war.
It was also noted that, according to World Bank estimates, rebuilding Ukraine’s energy sector will cost at least $68 billion, and this amount continues to grow due to constant Russian attacks.
Ambassador Jeffrey Pyatt described the situation as a humanitarian catastrophe and stated that Russia is purposefully destroying civilian energy infrastructure in an attempt to undermine the morale of the population. He called the situation in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second largest city, particularly critical, where damage to water supply systems has led to shortages of drinking water, sanitation and heat.
“There can be no sustainable future without urgent intervention,” the discussion emphasized.
From a practical, solution-oriented perspective, NUE Energy founder Paul Shmatoloha presented mobile energy systems – solar panels for balconies, batteries, generators and mobile power plants. He emphasized the key role of decentralized systems and energy storage systems, in particular lithium batteries, which can stabilize communities in the short term.
DTEK representative Oleksiy Povorozky provided an assessment of the situation directly from the scene. According to him, due to failures on the front line, Russia has intensified attacks on critical infrastructure. All five of the company’s thermal power plants have been seriously damaged or destroyed. Despite partial restoration of facilities in early 2025, the current situation is the most severe since the start of the full-scale war.
“This winter is not only an energy crisis, but also a direct threat to the economic and social stability of Ukraine,” the speech emphasized.
The webinar concluded with a speech by Stephen Burns of the Institute for Security and Technology, who examined Ukraine’s energy crisis in a broader geopolitical context.
“Our response to this conflict will define the world order for the next generation,” he concluded.
The UCCA Emergency Energy Working Group reaffirmed its commitment to mobilizing expertise, resources, and advocacy efforts to support Ukraine so that both urgent humanitarian needs and long-term energy security remain at the center of international attention and action.
Prepared by: Inna Mikhno