Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy asked Spain and Latin American countries to help source grid equipment for repairs, citing damage from Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy system.
He made the appeal during a special panel at the 30th Ibero-American Summit in Madrid on Nov. 5. Zelenskyy said Ukraine needed equipment suited to its electricity network and prompt delivery, adding, “We need it fast.” The request included transformers, power cables, modern electrical equipment and diesel and gas generators. He said the supplies would support repairs and work to restore the country’s energy system.
He named Brazil, Mexico, Argentina and Colombia as potential sources of transformers, Chile for cables, and Spain for electrical equipment, cables and generators. He urged delegates to help Ukrainian counterparts establish contact with firms able to supply the equipment. The countries were identified as possible sources; Zelenskyy did not announce any supply agreement with a government or company.
Zelenskyy said attacks had caused damage at each of Ukraine’s power plants, with repair teams continuing restoration work. He also said missiles and Shahed drones had struck energy equipment on which Ukraine’s nuclear power plants depend.
The Royal Household said Madrid hosted the summit on Nov. 4-5, with leaders and representatives from all 22 Ibero-American Community countries. Zelenskyy said Ukraine was participating in such a gathering for the first time.
King Felipe VI met Zelenskyy at Zarzuela Palace on Nov. 5, accompanied by Defense Minister Margarita Robles, according to the Royal Household.
Madrid said it mobilized €570 million for Ukraine’s reconstruction in 2026, and cited further assistance for infrastructure and Ukrainians. Its statement did not assign funds to the grid equipment Zelenskyy requested.