With the support of the Ministry of Energy of Ukraine, UNDP, in collaboration with PJSC Ukrgazvydobuvannya, and with financial support from the Republic of Croatia, conducted a survey of the territory of the liberated Kharkiv region to identify the presence of mines and other explosive objects.

The survey covered 17 square kilometers. Now, on this territory, it is safe to conduct 3D seismic exploration for geological discoveries and gas extraction expansion.

"We are concluding the heating season, meeting the gas consumption needs with gas produced in Ukraine. This is important for further implementation of our energy independence. We must continue to increase gas production. We thank our partners for supporting programs that allow our gas workers to safely explore and conduct further extraction activities in promising areas," said the Minister of Energy of Ukraine Herman Halushchenko.

It is worth noting that the state-owned Ukrgazvydobuvannya extracts about 40% of gas precisely in the Kharkiv region. In 2022, a significant part of the region was under occupation and subject to enemy shelling. Despite the de-occupation of the region, the resumption of gas exploration operations was complicated by potential mine contamination. Therefore, risk assessment is an important priority stage before starting any activity.

The Permanent Representative of UNDP in Ukraine, Jakob Silje, noted that the presence of landmines and other explosive objects poses a threat to the safety of residents and significantly hinders the economic prosperity and energy security of the country, as a large amount of territory remains inaccessible.

"We expect that the return of these territories will contribute to regional economic growth and support Ukraine's efforts in search of vital resources for stability, security, and development," he said.

The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Croatia to Ukraine, Anica Djamić, stated that her country fully supports Ukraine's desire for energy independence through mine hazard elimination.

"We can help Ukraine develop its rich resources once we rid it of the all-encompassing mine threat. Our support demonstrates our readiness to ensure stability and prosperity for Ukraine for years to come," emphasized Ambassador Djamić.

Acting Director General of Ukrgazvydobuvannya, Oleg Tolmachev, thanked the Ministry of Energy and UNDP for their assistance and noted that in the coming years, the company plans to expand 3D seismic exploration to nearly 15,000 square kilometers. This will allow for new geological discoveries and increased gas production in the near future.