Moscow: Russia prepares for ‘gas war’ against countries that support Ukraine against Russian invasion. Gazprom, the Russian government-controlled energy company, has announced that it will cut natural gas supplies to Europe by 20 percent starting today.
The explanation is that one of the two main natural gas supply pipelines to Germany has been suspended due to technical problems.
Last week, the European Commission warned that Russia had completed repairs to the Nord Stream 1 pipeline in 10 days, a move that could lead to a complete shutdown of gas supplies.
The German Ministry of Economy has said that the situation is being carefully assessed and there is no need to cut gas supply all at once.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said, “This is intentional, and the EU should take action against Russia.” Zelensky pointed out that this is blackmailing by Russia, taking into account that the consumption of gas in Europe will increase as winter approaches.
Earlier, Russia warned that natural gas supplies to Germany via the Nord Stream pipeline would be reduced to 20 percent of maximum capacity. Last April, Russia cut off natural gas supplies to Poland and Bulgaria. Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that he will take strong action against countries that help Ukraine and will use all weapons to do so.
EU to cut gas imports by 15%
The European Union announced that it will bring restrictions on gas imports from Russia. Gas imports will be reduced by 15 percent between August and March. The Czech Republic, which holds the EU Presidency, responded that this is not an impossible task.
The European Union member states have been instructed to take measures in view of the reduction in gas imports. At the same time, there are reports that some countries will be given concessions in the new deal. Allow exemption for countries that do not have gas pipeline connections with other countries.
Exemption may also be granted to power plants that rely heavily on gas. Countries with less gas storage will also be given this exemption.