However, Kyiv remains open to discussing the possibility of transporting gas from other states.
No More Russian Gas Transit
“We will not continue to transit Russian gas,” Zelensky stated during a press conference in Brussels. “We will not allow the Russian Federation to earn additional billions at the cost of our blood. Any country that opts for cheap Russian gas will eventually become dependent on the Russian Federation. That is their policy. Therefore, we will not provide this opportunity.”
Zelensky emphasized that while Ukraine rejects Russian gas transit, the country could consider facilitating the transit of gas sourced from non-Russian suppliers. His remarks followed discussions with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico on ensuring stable energy supplies during the winter.
Open to Alternatives
“If it’s not Russian gas, but gas from another country, and if a European nation wants to purchase it without paying Russia until the war ends, then we can consider it,” Zelensky explained. “But we will not let the Russian Federation earn additional profits from this war.”
Ukraine’s Ministry of Energy has confirmed that, starting January 1, the transit of Russian gas through Ukrainian territory will cease completely.
Support from the Government
Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal recently held talks with his Slovak counterpart, Robert Fico, reaffirming Ukraine’s stance. Shmyhal underlined Ukraine’s readiness to support the transit of any gas—provided it is not from Russia—and to ensure stable winter gas supplies to European partners.
In effect, Ukraine’s decision signals a significant shift in its energy policy and a firm stand against further economic benefit to Russia amid ongoing aggression.
