Ukraine has accumulated significant gas reserves; however, Russian attacks on extraction facilities and infrastructure may force the state to increase imports in the winter of 2026/27. People's Deputy Yaroslav Zheleznyak also named the former Prime Minister Yulia Sviridenko as a likely candidate for the position of acting head of 'Naftogaz'.
Will Ukraine Have Enough Gas in Winter 2026/27?
According to the data provided by Zheleznyak, as of approximately August 12, there were nearly 14 billion cubic meters of gas in Ukrainian underground storage facilities. The storage facilities are being replenished by an average of 35 million cubic meters daily, so if the current pace is maintained, reserves could grow to 16 billion cubic meters by October.
At the same time, the baseline target approved by the government for the beginning of the heating season is 14.6 billion cubic meters, while 13.2 billion cubic meters is defined as the critically necessary minimum. This was reported by Energy Minister Denis Shmygal.
The accumulation of gas alone, the deputy emphasized, may prove to be insufficient. The volumes of winter extraction, the state of the gas transportation infrastructure, and the ability to promptly withdraw fuel from storage and deliver it to consumers will be crucial.
'Naftogaz' reported that since the beginning of 2026, its facilities have suffered 287 Russian attacks. The company is seeking international assistance for gas purchases, restoring damaged equipment, and diversifying supply routes. The additional funding required for imports is estimated to be around 400 million euros, Shmygal stated.
Why Sviridenko Might Be Appointed at 'Naftogaz'
According to Zheleznyak, Yulia Sviridenko is being considered as a possible acting head of the 'Naftogaz' management board. At the time of the video recording, there was still no official decision, and the company was temporarily led by Sergei Fedorенко, who was appointed by the supervisory board on July 17.
The main argument in favor of Sviridenko, the deputy noted, is her experience in negotiations with Western partners. The new leader will need to quickly attract international funding to create a reserve of imported gas in case of further destruction.
At the same time, Zheleznyak pointed out potential legal issues due to Sviridenko's recent work in the government. In his opinion, after the heating season ends, the supervisory board should conduct a transparent competition and select a permanent head of the company. The appointment procedure should also not undermine the trust of international partners, from whom the financing of gas purchases depends.