As global leaders convene at the World Economic Forum in Davos this week, Ukrainian organisation Razom We Stand issues a resounding call to curb Russian oil and gas exports, a move that could bring peace and accelerate the transition to clean energy in Ukraine and beyond.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine continues to plunge the nation into a profound humanitarian crisis, with senseless missile attacks claiming the lives of hundreds of civilians and children. Shockingly, Europe and the USA persist in supporting Russia's fossil fuel exports, inadvertently fueling the conflict and prolonging Ukraine's struggle for energy liberation.
"The tragic loss of human life in Ukraine, including hundreds of civilians and children, is unfortunately often paid for by cash sent to Russia from Europe and the USA. Sustainable peace in Ukraine and worldwide relies on a crucial shift away from dependence on Russian oil and gas, steering towards a clean energy future. This conversation should take centre stage at Davos. Rebuilding Ukraine with renewable energy isn't just about recovery; it's about signalling to world leaders that a speedy clean energy transition is fundamental to our independence and resilience." - Svitlana Romanko, Founder and Director, Razom We Stand.
The proceeds from Russia's oil and gas exports fortify its war economy, enabling devastating attacks on Ukrainian cities and civilian infrastructure. Unchecked militarization and escalating aggression, the most significant since Soviet times, pose a grave threat to regional stability and the future of democracy in Europe.
Europe and the US actively contribute to Russia's war chest by inadequately enforcing already weak sanctions against Russian oil and gas, leaving exploitable loopholes that fund its aggression against Ukrainian civilians.Razom We Stand urges immediate action, including a ban on Russian LNG imports in Europe and the collective severance of reliance on Russian imports. As Ukraine President Zelensky stated last week, "For the results of sanctions to be 100%, sanctions loopholes must also be blocked 100%.”
Ukraine is poised to strengthen EU gas supply security through its ample gas storage. As reported by the Financial Times, Ukraine's crucial role in enhancing EU gas supply security is evident. Meanwhile, US LNG exports hit record highs in December, positioning the US as the prospective largest LNG exporter in 2023. With reports that Europe may have an over-supply of LNG infrastructure and cheaper clean-energy production at all-time highs, now is the perfect time to act.
By halting Russian oil and gas exports, we can dismantle the foundation that enables Putin’s war machine to thrive.
Razom We Stand remains committed to promoting responsible energy practices and will vigilantly monitor discussions and decisions at Davos. The organisation implores leaders at Davos to prioritise the well-being of our planet and global security over short-term economic gains and create a complete ban on Russian energy sources now.
ENDS
Razom We Stand is a Ukrainian organisation active internationally and calling for a total and permanent embargo on Russian fossil fuels and an immediate end to all investment into Russian oil and gas companies by phasing out fossil fuels globally.
Quotes from Svitlana Romanko provided herein may be used for publication with appropriate attribution.
Svitlana Romanko has appeared in top-tier international press, including Politico, Bloomberg, Washington Post, CNN, NBC, Financial Times, The Guardian, Der Spiegel, and Le Monde; a detailed list is here.
Professional photos of Svitlana Romanko are copyright-free here unless otherwise noted on the image.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Paraic Walker
International Communications Specialist
Razom We Stand
press@razomwestand.org
