American liquefied gas will flow from Greece to Ukraine through Bulgaria along the length of the vertical gas corridor. This is a key moment for Ukraine's energy security, against the backdrop of the ongoing aggression against the country.
A declaration of this intention was signed in Athens as part of a visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The event, which marks a significant step towards securing energy resources for Ukraine, took place against the backdrop of a tense geopolitical situation. In this way, Ukraine will receive natural gas needed for the coming winter. The transit will be carried out jointly by the operators of the transmission systems of Greece, Bulgaria, Romania and Moldova.
Before his arrival in Greece, President Zelensky estimated the value of the deal at around 2 billion euros. This amount underlines the financial dimension of the energy partnership and the need to ensure stable gas supplies.
During the visit, Greece and Ukraine signed an agreement for the transit of American liquefied gas to Kyiv, which will pass through the territories of Bulgaria, Romania and Moldova. This move is part of a broader energy package that aims to cover Ukraine's needs during the winter and to guarantee gas supplies, despite the constant Russian attacks against Ukrainian energy infrastructure. The deal was finalized by the Greek gas company DEPA and the Ukrainian "Naftogaz" in the presence of President Volodymyr Zelensky and Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.
At the event, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasized the strategic importance of the agreement: "Dear Volodymyr, the relations between our two countries are taking on a new dimension - a secure energy artery from south to north, from Greece to Ukraine, through the forming vertical gas corridor and through the Alexandroupolis - Odessa interconnector. This will give Ukraine immediate access to diverse and reliable energy sources, and Greece will become a hub for the supply of liquefied natural gas from the United States to Central and Eastern Europe". Mitsotakis's words outline a new era in bilateral relations, characterized by increased energy interdependence and cooperation.
At the same time, the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, also expressed satisfaction with the agreement reached, underlining its timeliness: "Gas supplies will begin in January and it is important that the first agreements will be implemented in the first quarter. In addition to immediate gas supplies, there are also long-term agreements". His words emphasize the desire to ensure sustainable energy supplies in the future.
As part of the meeting, Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis also promised support for the post-war reconstruction of Ukraine. President Zelensky, for his part, expressed gratitude to the American companies and to President Trump for the agreements that open the way for the supply of American natural gas through Greece.
Against the backdrop of these events, the atmosphere of determination and solidarity in Athens could be felt.
At the beginning of his first visit to Athens since 2023, President Zelensky was also received by President Konstantinos Tasoulas.
Greek President Konstantinos Tasoulas assured the country's support, stating: "Be assured that our position on humanitarian issues, abducted children and energy issues will remain unchanged and we will continue to strongly support Ukraine".
President Zelensky stressed the importance of energy support in the conditions of military operations: "Winter is coming - a harsh winter for Ukraine. The challenges facing Ukraine are many. The strikes are every day, simultaneously with drones and missiles, so we thank you first for the political support, but also for the support in the energy sector".
After the meetings in Greece, President Zelensky will continue his tour with visits to France and Spain.