Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appealed for immediate help in repairing Ukraine’s electricity network and long-term investment in its energy system at a conference in Berlin. This comes as Russia’s war has wreaked destruction in the country. Zelenskyy also called for more assistance in repelling missile attacks by Russian forces. The conference in Berlin follows up on a similar gathering in London a year ago and aims to gather support for Ukraine’s recovery with the participation of 2,000 people from various sectors.
One of the immediate problems facing Ukraine is the sustained Russian attacks on its power grid, leading to nationwide rolling blackouts. Zelenskyy emphasized the need for equipment for heating and electricity plants that are currently out of action. He stated that nine gigawatts of electricity have been destroyed, with energy being a primary target for Russian President Putin. Zelenskyy highlighted the importance of foreign investments in Ukraine’s energy sector, emphasizing the mutual benefits such investments could bring.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz echoed Zelenskyy’s call for investments in Ukraine, stating that rebuilding and modernizing the country would require nearly $500 billion over the next 10 years. He emphasized that the reconstruction of Ukraine should be seen as a business case, with opportunities for companies to benefit. The conference also focused on support for reforms in Ukraine as it seeks to join the EU. However, concerns have been raised about systemic obstacles hindering effective reconstruction efforts in Ukraine.
Zelenskyy, during his visit to Berlin, urged allies to help strengthen Ukraine’s air defense, particularly with additional Patriot air defense systems. Germany and other NATO allies recently announced that Ukraine could use weapons delivered to Kyiv for limited attacks inside Russia. Zelenskyy also called for lifting remaining restrictions on weapons systems supplied to Ukraine. Despite some opposition from far-right parties in Germany, Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of diplomatic efforts ahead of the upcoming peace summit in Switzerland.
The developments in Ukraine have also seen resignations within the State Agency for Restoration of Ukraine, with complaints of systemic obstacles hindering effective operations. Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts have been further complicated by the absence of a dedicated minister following the dismissal of Oleksandr Kubrakov. Zelenskyy’s visit to Berlin focused on the common interest of Ukraine and Germany in seeing Putin lose the war. The president emphasized the importance of diplomacy as Ukraine prepares for the peace summit in Switzerland, with the goal of bringing around 100 countries together for peace talks.
As the war in Ukraine continues, the country is seeking both short-term assistance to address immediate challenges like the damaged electricity network and long-term investments for sustainable recovery. Zelenskyy’s diplomatic efforts are aimed at garnering support from allies in rebuilding Ukraine and strengthening its defenses. The conference in Berlin provided a platform for discussions on reforms, investments, and the path to peace amidst ongoing conflict in the region. Ukraine remains committed to diplomatic solutions while facing ongoing challenges in the aftermath of the war with Russia.
