Ukraine is planning to cut the volumes of gas purchased in theRussian Federation to 20 billion м³ and import about 5 billion м³ from Europe using the reverse scheme. This was announced by the Deputy Chairman of the Board of the NJSC “Naftogaz Ukraine” Vadim Chuprun in his briefing in Kiev.
“This year we will purchase 27,5 billion м³ from Russia. As for 2013, our first decision was to purchase 24 billion м³, now we think it is better to buy 20 billion м³” – said Chuprun, according to Interfax-Ukraine.
Although, on Tuesday, November 20, during the X International forum “Gas of Russia- 2012” blamed Ukraine for infringing the terms of the contract. “Cutting the gas volumes to be purchased is an infringement of our long-term contract, valid until 2019. In relationships with Ukraine we are ruled by long-term contracts” – indicated Yazev, according to RIA news.
The long-term contract between “Naftogaz” and “Gazprom” stipulates penal sanctions for purchasing gas in volumes lower than minimum. Although, the experts are convinced that Ukraine can avoid sanctions. An independent expert Mikhail Gonchar informed UNIAN about this fact. “Having faced the stubborn opposition in Ukraine and risking receiving a counter-claim from Stockholm, “Gazprom” will not take such steps” – wrote UNIAN.