In wartime, energy infrastructure is no longer merely an economic asset — it has become a strategic target. This was stated by Žygimantas Vaičiūnas, Minister of Energy of Lithuania, at the 18th annual Kyiv Security Forum “Darkness or Dawn: Is Light Ahead?”

“Ukraine’s energy system has become a decisive factor in the country’s survival. Despite unprecedented destruction, Ukraine continues to maintain power supplies. This is not only a story of resilience but also a vital lesson for everyone,” he emphasised. The Minister noted that Europe has never witnessed destruction of energy infrastructure on such a scale: major power plants have been destroyed, generation capacity has been significantly reduced, and substations, particularly those linked to nuclear facilities, are regularly targeted.

At the same time, Ukraine’s experience demonstrates the vulnerability of centralised energy systems and the urgent need for their transformation. “This proves that energy is a matter of sovereignty and national security. Nuclear safety can no longer be viewed in isolation from military and geopolitical realities,” Vaičiūnas stressed.

He recalled that Lithuania had already undergone a major energy transformation by reducing dependence on a single supplier, investing in diversification, and integrating into the European market. Such an approach, he noted, is equally relevant for Ukraine.

The Minister emphasised the importance of synchronising Ukraine’s energy systems with the European grid via Poland and the Baltic states, a step that would enhance resilience and security of supply.

He also highlighted the need for innovative solutions, including energy storage systems and decentralised generation. As an example, he pointed to Ukrainian hospitals where solar power installations help ensure critical electricity supply even during attacks.

Vaičiūnas emphasised the role of international support. “We must remain united. Lithuania provides Ukraine with generators, transformers, and other critical equipment, and helps ensure electricity supply during the most challenging periods,” he stated.

The Minister also welcomed steps to deepen Ukraine’s integration into the European energy market and stressed the importance of ongoing coordination with partners.

According to him, Ukraine’s experience is prompting Europe to review its approaches to protecting energy infrastructure from both physical attacks and cyber threats. He noted that forty years after the Chornobyl disaster, the world is once again confronting fundamental questions of energy security.

“Today, Ukraine is defending not only its own territory but also the principles of international security. Whether there is light ahead depends on our collective actions,” the Minister concluded.

“Open Ukraine” is an international foundation established in 2007 on the initiative of Arseniy Yatsenyuk to strengthen Ukraine’s international standing. Each year, it organises the Kyiv Security Forum – Ukraine’s leading international platform for discussing war and peace – as well as the Youth Kyiv Security Forum, aimed at fostering a new generation of Ukrainian leaders.