This decision marks a definitive end to the current arrangement.
Key Points from Zelenskyy's Statement:
- No Renewal: Zelenskyy confirmed that the existing contract with Russia for gas transit through Ukraine will not be extended. "No one will continue the contract with Russia. This is the end of it," he stated during a briefing on August 27.
- Future Transit Possibilities: While the transit of Russian gas is coming to an end, Zelenskyy mentioned that Ukraine might consider requests for gas transit from other companies, particularly if European partners express interest. "If the request of some of our European colleagues continues, we will consider their request," he added.
- Azerbaijan Gas Discussions: Zelenskyy referenced previous discussions about the transit of Azerbaijani gas to the European Union through Ukraine. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has indicated that both Ukraine and the EU have asked Azerbaijan to consider supplying natural gas to Europe via Ukraine, especially as the current contract with Russia is set to expire at the end of the year.
Background Context:
- Negotiations: According to Aliyev, ongoing negotiations involve Ukraine, the EU, and Russia, with all parties seemingly interested in continuing gas supplies in some form. However, Zelenskyy's latest statement makes it clear that the transit of Russian gas specifically will no longer continue through Ukrainian territory.
This development underscores Ukraine's firm stance on ending its energy dependence on Russia and potentially opens the door for new energy partnerships with other countries, such as Azerbaijan, to supply gas to Europe.
