On 13 August 2025, Ukraine launched joint tactical and special drills involving the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the State Emergency Service, the National Police, the National Guard, critical infrastructure operators, regional military administrations, and other partners responsible for the security of energy facilities.
The drills are taking place in 17 regions at 34 energy infrastructure sites. At each site, participants will practice effective coordination, verify resources and capabilities, and test response procedures. The 24-day training will take place in the regions and in the city of Kyiv, wherever the security situation permits.
The main goal of the drills is to stay ahead of the enemy in countering energy-related terrorism and to increase the speed of response to emergencies — a key task in preparations for the 2025–2026 heating season.
“This is already the fourth heating season our country faces under full-scale invasion. Despite russian terror, we are approaching it with sufficient generating capacity, developing distributed generation in every region, carrying out repair campaigns, and increasing our capacity to import and export fuel,” said Minister of Energy of Ukraine Svitlana Grynchuk.
According to the Minister, the number one priority today is the security of energy facilities and strengthening the emergency response to swiftly mitigate their consequences.
“At the previous interagency meeting with Minister of Internal Affairs Ihor Klymenko, law enforcement agencies, and energy companies, we discussed the latest mechanisms for physical protection. We are strengthening air defence, deploying counter-drone systems, and updating response protocols. Whatever happens at the geopolitical level, we must do everything together to ensure Ukrainians spend this winter in warm and well-lit homes,” Svitlana Grynchuk emphasized.
Today, one of the main challenges is the massive use of drones: this year, up to 90% of strikes are carried out by drones. This requires focusing efforts on new technologies and redirecting resources to procure effective counter-drone systems. Another priority is the protection of personnel: equipping reliable shelters for energy sector workers has become critically important.
Minister of Energy Svitlana Grynchuk expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and all law enforcement officers for their deep engagement with energy security issues and their readiness for joint action in crisis situations.
