Ukraine will not negotiate with Russian Federation on extension of gas transit – minister

Ukraine will not conduct negotiations with Russia on the extension of gas transit in its territory after the end of the current contract. This was stated by the Minister of Energy of Ukraine German Galushchenko, the Ukrainian media reports.

The Minister explained that the effect of the contract providing for the transit of the Russian Federation to the EU through the territory of Ukraine ends next year, and its extension will depend on whether Europe can do without Russian gas.

Galushchenko expressed the hope that Europe will be able to diversify its deliveries and do without Russian gas in the future.

At the same time, he noted that Russia can terminate the contract at any time, since the transaction depends on the Russian side.

Galushchenko also noted that Ukraine can play an important role in ensuring the stability of the gas market in Europe this winter.

European companies continue to store gas in Ukrainian gas storages, and this trend, he believes, will only intensify.

“Ukraine is able to guarantee the safety of supplies for Europe, and this is important,” the minister said.