There won’t be direct dependence on Russia, Ukraine FM pledges

“There won’t be linear dependence on Russia. Not because we are against it. We just want to find a mutually beneficial balance of interests. I believe, it doesn’t take long for clever people here and in Europe to realize where the balance is,” the minister said.

Hryshchenko stressed the advantages of gas supply route for the Russian and Asian gas to Europe via Ukraine, saying it is a land route. Unlike sea routes, any emergency, the minister added, can be fixed within hours.

The minister believes Ukraine gas pipelines are in need of minor modernization. However, even in their present state, the pipelines can transit more gas than  Europe’s potential needs will require.