After the expiration of the gas contract with Russia, Ukraine will refuse to negotiate its extension, stated the Minister of Energy of Ukraine Herman Galushchenko. The contract, which regulates the transit of Russian gas to Europe through Ukraine, expires next year.
The possibility of extending this contract will depend on Europe's ability to do without Russian gas, the minister emphasized. He expressed hope that Europe will be able to diversify its supplies and ensure independence from Russian gas.
Galushchenko emphasized that Ukraine does not plan to participate in negotiations with Russia on this issue, as it wants to get rid of its dependence on Russian gas.
"Firstly, we will definitely not be a party to negotiations with the Russians, and this is absolutely obvious, and secondly, I think that next year will be indicative of Europe's ability to function without Russian gas at all. I see all the prerequisites for this to happen," the Minister said.
The Minister emphasized that he saw the prerequisites for Europe to be able to do without Russian gas in the future. He noted that Ukraine plays an important role in ensuring the stability of the gas market in Europe, as many European companies continue to store gas in Ukrainian gas storage facilities.
"Ukraine is able to guarantee security of supplies for Europe, and this is important," Galushchenko said.
