Igor Klymenko Appointed Head of Energy Security Expert Council as Ukraine Prepares for Winter Threats

Igor Klymenko Takes Leadership of Ukraine’s Energy Security Expert Council

According to Рубрика — Політика: On October 5, 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed decree No. 1028/2026, appointing Igor Klymenko as chairman of the Expert Council on Energy Security. This update revises the earlier presidential decree from May 29, 2020 (No. 206/2020) which established the Council. Operating as an advisory body to the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, the Expert Council evaluates the effectiveness of government policies in the energy sector.

The Council's key focus areas include:

• energy conservation analysis,
• advancement of renewable energy sources,
• promotion of alternative fuels.

The Council's membership is determined by its chair with the president’s approval.

Klymenko’s Recent Roles and the Current Energy Security Landscape

Igor Klymenko has served as Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) since August 3, 2026. On the same day, President Zelensky dismissed Rustem Umerov from the NSDC secretary role and appointed him head of the Foreign Intelligence Service. Prior to this, Klymenko was Minister of Internal Affairs from February 2023, following the death of Denys Monastyrsky, having previously led the National Police for several years.

Regarding Ukraine’s energy security amid ongoing threats, intelligence agencies have provided detailed documents outlining Russia’s plans for winter attacks targeting critical energy infrastructure. According to Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal, these documents specify targeted facilities along with the types and quantities of weaponry intended for use.

In response, Ukraine has constructed over 200 reinforced concrete shelters to protect priority sites identified by Russian intelligence. Additional protective measures include the installation of pre-detonation shields and anti-drone netting designed to counter FPV drone assaults.

“Ukraine is preparing for the enemy’s winter campaign,” Minister Shmyhal stated.

The presidential decree appointing Klymenko took effect immediately upon publication.

Appointing Igor Klymenko as head of the Expert Council highlights the critical importance of energy policy amid persistent security challenges posed by Russia. The Council is expected to play a vital role in shaping strategies that bolster Ukraine’s energy resilience. Given Klymenko’s extensive background in security and public administration, his leadership may prove pivotal in safeguarding the country’s energy infrastructure against external threats.

As Ukraine strengthens its defenses against potential winter threats, the appointment of Igor Klymenko highlights the government's proactive stance on both energy and cybersecurity. His recent leadership role in the national cybersecurity efforts further emphasizes the interconnected nature of these critical sectors in safeguarding the nation’s infrastructure.