Russia is ready to extend its gas contract with Ukraine.
Russia is ready to extend the gas transit contract through Ukraine under current conditions, Energy Minister Alexander Novak told reporters after talks with European Energy Commission Vice President Maros Sefcovic.
In addition, Russia is ready to continue supplying gas to Ukraine, the Russian minister added. "Currently, as is known, Ukraine has to buy gas, also from us, but at a higher price than if it were supplied directly," said Alexander Novak.
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| Photo: Sputnik |
At the same time, Mr. Novak confirmed that Gazprom could reduce prices for Ukrainian consumers by 25% compared to current prices.
Gazprom is also ready to participate in managing the gas transit system if Ukraine makes such a proposal, the minister noted.
According to him, the conversation with Sefcovic was substantive. In particular, the parties agreed to discuss the date for the next trilateral meeting between Russia, Ukraine, and the European Commission. The minister believes that the second half of September is the most opportune time for this, awaiting the parliamentary elections in Ukraine and the appointment of a government.
"In general, we confirm to the European Commission, Mr. Sefcovic, that Russia has a constructive position, is ready to guarantee and continue the transit of gas through Ukraine, to ensure supply for European consumers," the Russian Energy Minister emphasized.
The current contract for the supply and transit of Russian gas through Ukraine expires at the end of this year. At the same time, since November 2015, Ukraine has refused to buy from Gazprom and has been purchasing fuel elsewhere in Europe, primarily from Slovakia, Hungary, and Poland. Although the Kyiv authorities have repeatedly stated that they have managed to free themselves from Russian gas, many officials and politicians have noted that such purchases are more expensive than buying directly from Russia.
