Ukraine’s underground gas storage presents a strategic opportunity that could benefit both Ukraine and the EU, he said.
“We see clear interest from Ukraine in developing underground gas storage to ensure the continent’s energy security,” Vaičiūnas said.
Lithuania is particularly interested in Ukraine’s storage capacity, he added, noting that his country has already contributed to strengthening the EU’s energy independence.
Lithuania has fully moved away from reliance on Russian energy imports, completing its integration with the continental European energy network last year, he said.
“We learned the lesson of dependence on Russian energy imports. That chapter is closed, including with our synchronization with the continental European network. This was the final step toward our independence,” Vaičiūnas said.
Sanctions against Russia’s nuclear energy sector remain more complicated due to limited global access to nuclear fuel, he said, adding that international organizations should take a more active role.
“This issue is more complex due to the limited availability of nuclear fuel for Europe and the world,” he said.
The European Commission is preparing a draft regulation to halt imports of Russian oil, and Lithuania is ready to work intensively on the initiative, Vaičiūnas said.
“You may see it before or during our presidency, meaning from Jan. 1, 2027. We are ready to ensure a European decision to stop oil imports from Russia,” he said.
EU discussions are currently focused on two aspects of the gas sector, he said.
Lithuania’s liquefied natural gas terminal has already been used to supply gas to Ukraine via Poland, with four shipments delivered to the Ukrainian system last year, he said.
Ukraine’s underground gas storage capacity is also being considered as a potential site for a strategic gas reserve for the entire EU, he added.