Abstract
The article summarizes the features of the development of geological exploration and the formation of a hydrocarbon resource base in the Western oil and gas region of Ukraine, the oldest in Europe. The period, which is being considered, begins in 1771 and is divided into several blocks: until 1945, until the 70s of the 20th century, until the 90s of the 20th century and to the present day. In each of the blocks, the main parameters characterizing the organizational structure and volumes of geological exploration are determined. Possibilities for the successful development of geological exploration in the indicated region and the need to increase them threefold are justified.