European countries report gas reductions from Russian energy supplier - 06/01/2009
A number of European countries have reported gas reductions from their Russian energy supplier in the aftermath of Ukraine being cut off, reports the BBC.
Ukraine had its gas supply cut off by Russia last week in an ongoing dispute over unpaid bills, but the cut now appears to have affected neighbouring countries as well. Romania says it has experienced a 75 per cent reduction in its gas supply, while Turkey says it has been completely cut off. Greece, Bulgaria and Macedonia have also reportedly experienced supply reductions. Ukraine has blamed Russian energy supplier Gazprom for any supply reductions.
According to the BBC, a statement from Ukrainian energy supplier Naftogaz, said: "Naftogaz of Ukraine considers that in such a case if European users receive less volumes of natural gas, all claims of the noted countries must be directed to Gazprom."
Gas supplies bound for many European countries are routed through Ukraine, but Russia has accused the country of stealing gas intended for its neighbours.
Experts are concerned that the dispute between Russia and Ukraine could threaten long-term cheap energy prices in the UK.
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