Ukraine’s Ambassador to Germany, Oleksii Makeiev, has condemned Russia’s intensified targeting of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, framing the attacks as a deliberate act of terror against civilian populations and a critical component of a “genocidal war”. In a stark appeal for escalated European action, Makeiev underscored the devastating impact on Ukrainian citizens, who are enduring extended periods without power.
Speaking to “Bild”, the ambassador emphasized that the unrelenting attacks can only be countered by demonstrating unwavering resolve on the part of the West. He singled out Germany, highlighting its pivotal role in galvanizing European unity. “Germany’s leadership is decisive” he stated, asserting that European policy will follow Berlin’s lead.
Makeiev’s call for action encompassed a range of measures, indicating a growing frustration with the perceived inadequacy of current support. He specifically demanded a complete severing of Russia’s energy revenues, a decisive ruling regarding the utilization of frozen Russian assets and substantial investment in both the Ukrainian energy sector and its domestic arms production capabilities.
The plea represents a pointed critique, implicitly questioning the speed and scale of European responses to Russia’s escalating aggression. While acknowledging existing aid packages, Makeiev’s invocation of “genocide” and demand for bolder action signals a pressure campaign aimed at compelling Germany and the broader European Union to reassess their engagement strategy and adopt a significantly more aggressive posture towards Moscow. The ambassador’s remarks are likely to reignite the ongoing debate within European capitals concerning the limits of sanctions, the potential for asset confiscation and the delicate balance between supporting Ukraine’s defense and avoiding a wider conflict.