On May 4, within the framework of the President of Ukraine’s visit to the European Political Community Summit in Yerevan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha participated in the event “The Impact of the Vertical Gas Corridor on Regional Energy Security,” organized at the initiative of Romania.

“Energy is no longer a matter of economics alone — it is a matter of security and geopolitical resilience,” the Minister emphasized.

The Head of the MFA drew attention to Russian terror against Ukraine's energy infrastructure as one of the key components of Russian aggression.

“Russia has two ways of using energy as a weapon. They create dependency for those who buy their energy resources, and they attack the infrastructure of those who refuse them,” the Minister added.

Andrii Sybiha noted that gas transportation routes of non-Russian origin must be viewed not as alternative options, but as the only way forward.

Furthermore, any energy infrastructure requires protection, as Moscow will exert every effort to disrupt Europe's strategic sovereignty, which begins with energy independence.

According to the Minister, the Vertical Gas Corridor is not merely an economic or political initiative. In today’s realities, it is a strategic project for the security of Europe. “Routes for gas of non-RF origin are not an alternative; they are the only viable way forward. This is precisely why Ukraine joined the Corridor in 2024 and is actively working with partners to unlock its full potential,” he remarked.

Andrii Sybiha stated that this project is commercially attractive and geopolitically decisive. Ukraine offers unique assets: one of the largest gas transportation systems in Europe and the largest underground gas storage facilities on the continent, with a capacity of 31 billion cubic meters. This positions Ukraine as a key pillar of Europe's energy resilience.

The Head of the MFA stressed that air defense is a critical element of protection, adding that thanks to its unique experience, Ukraine has the capability to become a true pillar of European energy security.

“Ukraine is ready to contribute on both fronts — by strengthening Europe's energy architecture and by sharing practical, battle-tested experience in protecting critical infrastructure,” the Minister added.

The event was also attended by representatives from Albania, Bulgaria, Greece, Moldova, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Slovakia.