G7 energy ministers condemn Russia’s attacks on Ukraine’s energy system

​​​​​​​By Ilayda Cakirtekin

ISTANBUL (AA) - Energy ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) on Saturday condemned Russia’s attacks on Ukraine’s energy system and vowed continued support to its energy needs.

"We condemn Russia’s direct attacks on Ukraine’s energy system, which continue to inflict devastating social, environmental, and economic consequences on the Ukrainian people, severely impacting the most vulnerable," Canada announced in a statement following a G7 Energy and Environment Ministers’ Meeting in Toronto.

It noted that Russia’s recent attacks on Ukraine’s natural gas infrastructure have weakened civilian infrastructure and the energy security of the Ukrainian people.

"We, the G7 Energy Ministers, condemn Russia’s war against Ukraine, and its impact on their energy security. We reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine in defending its territorial integrity and right to exist, and its freedom, sovereignty and independence," it noted.

The G7 vowed to continue supporting Ukraine’s energy needs through the protection of its energy infrastructure and support for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in promoting nuclear safety and security in Ukraine.

The group also reaffirmed "unified support and communication" through the G7+ Ukraine Energy Coordination Group and the Ukraine Energy Support Fund, while also reassuring a "commitment" to securing and diversifying interconnected energy supply chains.

"Ukraine can serve as a model for energy security and innovation, notably in building a modern and resilient energy system. We recognize existing bilateral and multilateral actions in support of Ukraine’s sovereign decision to accelerate the development of a decentralized energy system," the statement noted.

The G7 stressed that it is helping to stabilize "critical infrastructure" that "will welcome private investment."

"Energy-related sanctions on Russia are being enforced and we continue to take action to tighten measures and dismantle Russia’s shadow tanker fleets to curb war-related revenues. We welcome the endorsement of the Statement on Ukraine’s Energy Security by Australia and Ukraine," it added.

The group also voiced support for Ukraine's path toward further European integration.