U.S. government interested in Ukraine's strengthening as gas transit power – Ukrainian Cabinet

The U.S. government is interested in implementing joint projects in the energy field where the two countries have a common position: strengthening the role of Ukraine as a gas transiter to European consumers, the ultimate loading of Ukrainian gas transmission system, and countering the construction of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline.

Ukraine's energy independence is an integral part of the European energy security and a key to fruitful cooperation with other strategic partners, Prime Minister of Ukraine Volodymyr Groysman said during a meeting with Kent D. Logsdon, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Energy Resources, according to the Ukrainian government portal.

"The energy sector is a big part of our relationship. Washington is very serious about the energy component of cooperation with Ukraine. The U.S. government is interested in implementing joint projects," the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary said.

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"Jointly addressing such issues influences not only the energy independence of Ukraine, but also the energy security of Europe," Groysman said.

The parties noted that the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline is a purely political project and another hybrid weapon against the European Union. The parties also have a shared view toward strengthening Ukraine's own capabilities as a gas country.

"That is why it is of unparalleled importance for us to continue further mutually beneficial cooperation," Groysman said.