The pole of the EU in ensuring the energy security of Ukraine

The role of the European Union (EU) in ensuring Ukraine’s energy security in the conditions of modern geopolitical challenges is studied. Since the onset of Russia’s full-scale aggression against Ukraine, the country’s energy infrastructure has suffered significant damage, leading to an energy supply crisis. In such conditions, cooperation with the EU is critically important for the restoration and stabilization of Ukraine’s energy sector. The key directions and mechanisms of cooperation between Ukraine and the EU in the field of energy security, including the provision of financial assistance, technical support, as well as the implementation of joint projects in the field of renewable energy and energy efficiency, were considered. Special attention is given to the National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) until 2030, developed with EU support and serving as a crucial component of Ukraine’s energy security strategy. The article also analyzes the impact of the implementation of the EU Clean Energy Package on Ukraine’s regulatory environment, promoting predictable conditions for investors and facilitating Ukraine’s integration into the European energy market. The role of market incentives in attracting investments in renewable energy sources and their impact on Ukraine’s energy security is examined. he impact of the implementation of the EU Clean Energy Package on the regulatory and legal environment of Ukraine is analyzed, which contributes to the creation of predictable conditions for investors and ensures the integration of Ukraine into the European energy market. The significant role of international cooperation and the role of international financial institutions in providing the necessary funding for the implementation of the NECP is also discussed. Particular attention is given to the potential of Ukraine’s renewable energy sector, including opportunities for expanding wind, solar, biomass, and hydropower capacities. The implementation of distributed generation, energy storage systems, and microgrids, which contribute to enhancing energy independence and resilience at the community level, is also considered. Conclusions were made about the need for further close cooperation between Ukraine and the EU to ensure Ukraine’s energy security, as well as Ukraine’s prospects for becoming a leader in the field of renewable energy in the region. The article provides recommendations on priority areas for the development of the energy sector and measures that will strengthen Ukraine’s energy security in the context of European integration.