Greece and Ukraine Forge Critical Energy Partnership
Ukraine has secured a vital energy agreement with Greece to receive US-origin liquefied natural gas (LNG) over the coming winters, a direct response to systematic Russian attacks targeting critical energy infrastructure. The deal, signed during President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's visit to Athens, is designed to help Ukraine withstand what leaders are calling a 'difficult' winter ahead.
Infrastructure Under Fire and Frontline Shifts
The energy pact was finalised as Russian drone strikes overnight into Sunday caused further damage in the Odesa region, hitting a solar power plant among other sites. Meanwhile, on the ground, Russia's defence ministry claims its forces have advanced in the Zaporizhzhia region, capturing the settlements of Rivnopillya and Mala Tokmachka.
In a retaliatory move, Ukrainian forces struck a major oil refinery in Russia's Samara region and a warehouse storing drones for an elite Russian unit in Donetsk. Ukraine's general staff reported explosions and a fire at the Novokuibyshevsk refinery, though the full extent of the damage is still being assessed.
Anti-Corruption Overhaul and International Stances
Amid these developments, President Zelenskyy has announced a sweeping clean-up of Ukraine's energy sector following a $100 million kickback scandal, the most significant corruption case of his presidency. This includes a complete management change at the state nuclear operator Energoatom.
Internationally, Finland's President Alexander Stubb cautioned that a ceasefire in Ukraine is unlikely before spring, urging European allies to maintain support. In a separate development, Greenpeace has criticised France for sending reprocessed uranium to Russia, labelling the trade 'immoral' amidst the ongoing conflict.
On a humanitarian note, Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukraine is working to resume prisoner exchanges with Russia, potentially securing the return of 1,200 Ukrainian prisoners of war.
