Ukraine is fully prepared to ensure stable gas supplies to consumers, even in the event of a complete halt in Russian gas transit. This was done with due regard to national interests and security.
‘We have conducted a series of stress tests of the gas system to make sure that even without transit, we will be able to supply gas to our consumers,’ said Energy Minister German Galushchenko during the United News telethon.
Ukraine has always been open about its position on gas transit.
‘We have repeatedly announced the end of transit from 1 January 2025. Therefore, our position remains unchanged – we were ready for this,’ Galushchenko added.
Regarding Slovakia’s statements about a possible suspension of electricity supplies to Ukraine in response to the termination of gas transit, the Minister called it a gross violation of European standards. Ukraine has already appealed to the EU Energy Commissioner, ENTSO-E and the Energy Community on this issue.
In addition, Ukraine has an action plan: electricity imports can be replaced by supplies from other neighbours who are ready to increase volumes. Negotiations with partners have already been held.
The minister reminded that electricity imports from Slovakia became necessary due to Russian aggression. The occupation of the Zaporizhzhya NPP and the destruction of Ukrainian generation have created these challenges.
‘Imports are a direct consequence of Russia’s actions, which have been destroying our energy capacities for three years,’ summed up Herman Galushchenko.