Ukraine has ceased the transit of Russian gas to the European Union after the expiration of a five-year deal between Ukraine’s Naftogaz and Russia’s Gazprom. This move, announced by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, underscores Ukraine’s stance against enabling Russian revenues during the ongoing conflict. Zelensky emphasized that his nation would not allow Russia to “earn additional billions on our blood.”
The cessation ends a historic era of Russian gas flows through Ukraine, marking a significant geopolitical and economic shift. The European Commission has assured that Europe’s gas system is resilient, with diversified sources and contingency plans to address the stoppage. Liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Qatar and the United States, alongside piped gas from Norway and other alternatives, now dominate Europe’s energy strategy.
While Russian gas accounted for less than 10% of EU imports in 2023—down from 40% in 2021—countries like Slovakia and Austria still rely heavily on these supplies. Slovakia, the main entry point for Russian gas into the EU, faces heightened tensions. Prime Minister Robert Fico’s recent visit to Moscow and subsequent threat to halt electricity exports to Ukraine have drawn criticism from Zelensky, who accused him of aiding Russia in destabilizing Ukraine.
Moldova, not part of the EU but reliant on Ukrainian transit for its gas supplies, has declared a state of emergency in its energy sector. President Maia Sandu accused Russia of “blackmail” aimed at destabilizing the country ahead of its 2025 general election. Moldova’s government has taken measures to ensure stable energy supplies, including offering aid to Transnistria, the Russia-backed breakaway region.
As Europe adjusts, the strategic significance is clear. Russia has lost a crucial market, while the EU continues reducing its energy dependence on Moscow. Alternative routes, such as the Trans-Balkan pipeline, and sources from Greece, Turkey, and Romania, are being utilized to ensure supply stability.
The end of this transit agreement signifies a transformative moment for Europe’s energy independence and geopolitical strategy, reshaping dynamics long dominated by Russian gas.
