Germany says it will no longer depend on Russian gas

"Germany has built a business model that is largely based on dependence on cheap Russian gas. This model has failed, and will not return. We must build a new model at lightning speed," Habek said at a press conference.

Workers at a gas storage facility in Rehden, Germany. Photo: AP

He noted that the restructuring sometimes entails “bitter medicine,” including supporting companies at state expense, as well as introducing an additional utility charge for gas heating. The charge is scheduled to be applied from October 1 for two years. According to Reuters, the additional cost for a family of four could average 400-600 euros per year.

The European Union seeks to diversify its energy imports and reduce its dependence on the Russian Federation. Dmitry Peskov, Press Secretary of President Vladimir Putin, has repeatedly stated that Russia has never used gas supplies to punish anyone, but only sells fuel for its own benefit, to increase the well-being of the Russian people and on a commercial basis./.