Heating season under threat: Naftogaz has brought Ukraine to energy catastrophe.

Gas reserves in Ukraine have reached a historical minimum

Gas reserves in Ukraine have reached a historical minimum over the last 25-30 years due to ineffective management at Naftogaz. This was stated by the head of the Union of Consumers of Utility Services of Ukraine, Oleg Popenko.

'As of March 1, we have the lowest historical gas reserves for the last 25-30 years. Never before in the history of Naftogaz have gas reserves been brought to such a critical state – about 800 million cubic meters, and we minimally need 4 billion cubic meters', - the expert stated.

The main reason for this situation lies in the failed management of the state company. The management of Naftogaz did not purchase gas in Time when prices were lower, which led to significant financial losses.

The problem of 'reforms' and supervisory boards

The expert associates the problems with the implementation of so-called 'reforms' and the creation of supervisory boards, which, in his opinion, have complicated the situation in the industry. To ensure stable heating during the 2025-2026 season, Ukraine needs to purchase gas worth about 2.5 billion dollars. However, currently, only about 1.2 billion dollars in loan funds have been found from international partners.

'Even if we import the necessary 4-5 billion cubic meters and produce, say, 8-9 billion cubic meters, which we can theoretically extract by autumn 2025, this will only be enough for a warm winter', - warned Popenko.

Air temperature and heating supply

According to Popenko's forecasts, if the air temperature in winter stays around -10 degrees for a month, Ukrainians may face serious heating supply problems. Part of electricity generation in Ukraine depends on gas, so there may not be enough physical gas during a cold winter.

The expert also emphasizes the problem of incompetence of the leadership that came to power after 2015. He notes that the situation in Naftogaz is a consequence of ineffective management and the lack of strategic planning.