Ukrainian Energy Chief Dismissed Amidst Power Crisis
The board of Ukrenergo, Ukraine's national power grid operator, has dismissed its CEO, Volodymyr Kudrytskyi, amid a national state of emergency characterized by frequent power outages and rolling blackouts. The decision was influenced by President Zelensky's personal request.
Dismissal Follows Major Attack on Ukraine's Energy Infrastructure
Ukrainian media reports suggest that the push to remove Kudrytskyi started after the massive drone and missile attack from Russia on August 26, which primarily targeted Ukraine's energy infrastructure. The resulting widespread electricity supply disruptions raised questions about the country's preparedness, particularly regarding the incomplete protective structures around Ukrenergo power facilities. Critics argue that this lack of preparedness led to the worst possible outcome in terms of blackouts.
Accusations of Mismanagement and Poor Protection
Kudrytskyi is accused of improperly implementing previous decisions of the headquarters of the supreme commander-in-chief and inadequate protection of Ukrenergo facilities. A criminal probe by the High Anti-Corruption Court was launched against him last month. However, critics argue that this is politically motivated and unrelated to his performance as head of Ukrenergo.
Resignations in Protest and Concerns from Western Organizations
Two members of Ukrenergo's supervisory board resigned in protest against Kudrytskyi's dismissal, which they described as "politically motivated" and groundless. They also claimed to have experienced political pressure since their appointment to the supervisory board in 2021.
In a separate development, a letter from Western organizations operating in Ukraine, including representatives of the European Union, warned Ukrenergo that the dismissal could jeopardize their collective ability to support Ukrenergo and other priority measures of Ukraine's vital energy security.
Reactions to the Dismissal
The EU's ambassador to Ukraine, Katarina Mathernova, was among the signatories of the letter. Kudrytskyi and his supporters have countered the board's accusations, insisting that adequate protective measures were in place.
Kudrytskyi confirmed his dismissal in a Facebook post on September 2, stating, "The Supervisory Board of Ukrenergo decided to terminate my mandate as the Chairman of the Management Board." This incident has reignited questions about the legitimacy of anti-corruption measures at state-owned enterprises.
Bottom Line
The dismissal of Ukrenergo's CEO, Volodymyr Kudrytskyi, amidst a national energy crisis in Ukraine has sparked controversy and concern, both domestically and internationally. Critics argue that the move is politically motivated, while others question the country's preparedness for attacks on its energy infrastructure. What are your thoughts on this development? Feel free to share this article with friends and engage in the discussion. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, available every day at 6pm.
