Zelenskyy Holds Talks with Former Deputy PM Kubrakov on Energy Crisis

President Meets with Former Deputy Prime Minister

According to Главком: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with former Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov on January 16, 2024, to discuss the country's energy situation and cooperation with international partners. The meeting focused on the severe energy crisis currently affecting Ukrainian cities and communities. This discussion comes at a critical time as Ukraine's energy grid faces immense strain from both wartime damage and seasonal winter pressures.

Oleksandr Kubrakov, who previously served as Deputy Prime Minister for the Restoration of Ukraine, was dismissed from this post by the Verkhovna Rada in May 2024, with 272 lawmakers supporting the decision. In July 2025, the State Bureau of Investigations conducted searches at the former minister's premises, an event that has drawn further public attention to his activities.

Future Cooperation Outlook

During the meeting, President Zelenskyy noted they discussed prospects for working with partners to enhance Ukraine's resilience and infrastructure development. This topic is particularly urgent given the ongoing challenges the country faces in the energy sector. The talks underscore the critical need to address issues stemming from aging infrastructure and external threats to the energy system.

The discussion between the president and the former deputy prime minister highlights the importance of solving energy problems through both domestic measures and international support. Collaboration with foreign partners is seen as a key factor in ensuring energy stability, which is vital for the country's continued development amid the current economic situation. Securing a stable energy supply remains a foundational priority for Ukraine's security and economic recovery.