Kuleba discusses with EU Commissioner Lahbib protection of energy facilities, provision of heat supply in the face of attacks

Deputy Prime Minister for Reconstruction of Ukraine and Minister for Communities and Territories Development Oleksiy Kuleba met with the EU Commissioner for Preparedness, Crisis Management and Equality Hadja Lahbib to discuss the protection of energy facilities, ensuring stable water and heat supplies in the face of constant attacks, and the implementation of rapid financing instruments for communities.

As reported on the Telegram channel of the Ministry of Communities and Territories Development of Ukraine on Monday, the parties discussed expanding Ukraine’s participation in the EU Civil Protection Mechanism and the use of rescEU reserves, which allows Ukraine to quickly receive critical assistance (equipment, generators, equipment) from EU countries.

"It is also important to launch fast-track financing mechanisms to quickly restore life support systems after the shelling. This should be taken into account in the new EU financial support program – Ukraine Support Loan 2026-2027," the message reads.

As reported, during her visit to Kyiv in February, Lahbib discussed increasing humanitarian aid and strengthening critical infrastructure. She held several meetings, including with Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, as well as with representatives of the Office of the President, the Ministry of Energy, and the Ministry of Community Development. She also visited key energy facilities that provide electricity to over 500,000 people and that suffered significant damage as a result of the attacks.