‘Austria is no longer dependent on Russian gas’ – Energy Minister Gewessler

Austria’s Minister for Climate and Energy, Leonore Gewessler, stated that Austria is no longer dependent on Russian gas, as the country has adequately prepared for Ukraine’s decision to suspend transit.

Gewessler noted that Ukraine had repeatedly announced its decision to suspend the transit of Russian gas through its territory. To ensure uninterrupted and unrestricted gas supplies, market participants turned to alternative sources, compensating for supply limitations and guaranteeing gas delivery.

“Ukraine has made it clear in advance that it will not renew the transit contract with the aggressor Russia. We have done our homework and were well-prepared for this scenario… Austria is no longer dependent on Russian gas — and that is good,” the minister stated.

Suspension of Russian gas transit via Ukraine

Today, January 1, Ukraine suspended the transit of gas from the terrorist state of Russia to European countries through its territory. The European Union (EU) was prepared for this scenario and can receive natural gas from other countries through alternative methods.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also reiterated that Ukraine is ready to transport gas to Europe, provided it is not of Russian origin.

For more on the potential consequences of the transit suspension for the EU, Ukraine, and Moldova, read RBC-Ukraine’s report.