The Latvian state-owned company Latvenergo provided Ukraine with equipment to restore the energy system after Russian attacks, including a high-voltage transformer, oil, and an air compressor. This aid will help with the household level as well as water and heat supply to hospitals, schools, and other facilities. The European Union covered the costs of transportation of the aid, which was delivered with the help of the Latvian State Fire and Rescue Service. Latvia has been a strong supporter of Ukraine since the outbreak of Russia’s full-scale war, with the prime minister stating that Riga’s military aid to Kyiv amounted to 392 million euros.
Moscow has intensified its missile and drone strikes against Ukraine’s critical infrastructure, launching attacks on energy facilities on multiple occasions. Most recently, Russia attacked the Trypillia Thermal Power Plant in Kyiv Oblast on April 11, leading to the destruction of 100% of the company’s generation capacity. This attack followed previous strikes on the Zmiiv Thermal Power Plant in Kharkiv Oblast and other energy facilities. Delfi media outlet reported that Ukraine also received 60 metric tons of transformer oil and an air compressor alongside the high-voltage transformer for restoration purposes.
DTEK, Ukraine’s state energy company, reported that Russia has attacked the country’s thermal power plants nearly 180 times. These attacks have caused significant damage to Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, leading to disruptions in electricity supply to various regions. The attacks on critical energy facilities have posed a challenge for Ukraine in maintaining a stable energy supply for its population. The support from Latvia and the European Union in providing essential equipment for restoring the energy system is crucial in helping Ukraine overcome the impact of these attacks and ensure the continuity of essential services.
The assistance provided by Latvenergo and the European Union comes at a crucial time for Ukraine as it faces ongoing attacks on its critical infrastructure by Russia. The aid, including the high-voltage transformer, oil, and compressor, will play a significant role in restoring the energy system and ensuring the continued supply of electricity to essential facilities such as hospitals and schools. The collaboration between Latvia, Ukraine, and the EU demonstrates the importance of international solidarity in supporting countries under threat and facing challenges such as energy security in times of conflict.
The attacks on Ukraine’s thermal power plants by Russia highlight the vulnerability of critical infrastructure in times of conflict. These attacks have had a devastating impact on Ukraine’s energy sector, disrupting the supply of electricity and posing challenges for the country’s ability to maintain essential services. The support from Latvia in providing equipment for the restoration of energy facilities reflects a commitment to standing with Ukraine in the face of aggression and ensuring the country’s resilience in the midst of ongoing hostilities. International cooperation and assistance are essential in helping Ukraine address the challenges posed by these attacks and rebuild its energy infrastructure.
