Russia's Attack on Ukrainian Gas Facility Threatens Winter Preparations
Russia has struck a gas facility in Ukraine's Odesa region, impacting preparations for winter. The attack targeted the Orlovka interconnector, a crucial gas supply point. Ukraine faces a gas shortage amid ongoing conflict, as the Transbalkan route remains vital for gas imports. No immediate response from Russia.
Russia's recent assault on a critical gas facility in Ukraine's southern Odesa region has jeopardized winter preparedness, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy reported. The attack, targeting the village of Novosilske near the Romanian border, struck the vital Orlovka interconnector along the Transbalkan route, a key gas supply line for Ukraine.
Zelenskiy condemned the strike as a "deliberate blow" to the nation's efforts to gear up for the heating season, questioning Russia's alleged intent to hit civilian energy infrastructure. Despite these claims, Russia maintains that energy systems, which aid Ukraine's war efforts, are legitimate targets.
Compounding Ukraine's gas crisis, the nation has sought to amplify gas imports from Azerbaijan's SOCAR firm via the Transbalkan route, which facilitates delivery from Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania. This pathway is deemed essential by Kyiv for access to diverse gas sources necessary for energy security.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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