Russian Missile Strikes Cut Ukraine Gas Output 60% Forcing Multibillion-Euro Imports

Recent Russian missile and drone attacks have severely damaged Ukraine's natural gas production infrastructure, with approximately 60% of capacity in key regions such as Kharkiv and Poltava destroyed. This has forced Ukraine to increase gas imports, potentially requiring about $2.2 billion and 4.4 billion cubic meters of additional gas by March 2026 to meet winter demand, thereby raising energy costs and increasing dependence on European supplies. Ukraine's largest underground gas storage is only 42% full, adding to concerns about energy security and the stability of supply during the harsh winter months. The attacks also threaten European energy markets, as increased Ukrainian imports may strain an already transitioning European gas market with heightened LNG demand. In parallel, Russia continues its offensive on multiple fronts, including damaging a Ukrainian thermal power plant and targeting energy infrastructure to disrupt heating, electricity, and morale ahead of winter. Ukraine is responding with repair efforts, appeals for international aid, and counterattacks to protect its energy grid and civilian needs.