Slovakia will act unanimously with the EU against Russia’s claims for gas payments, Slovak Prime Minister Eduard Heger said on Sunday, following a statement by his minister, who raised the option for his country to pay in rubles if this is deemed necessary to maintain Russian gas flows.
Slovakia relies heavily on Russia for gas supplies, and Moscow has demanded payment in rubles. However, the European Commission announced on Friday that European companies whose supply contracts set out to pay in euros or dollars would not be able to meet this requirement.
“In this situation, unity is key and we insist on respecting the terms of contracts and payments in euros,” Heger said in a Facebook post last night.
His comments came after Economy Minister Richard Sulik said the country would work together with Europe, but that Slovakia could not be cut off from Russian gas flows and that if it had to pay in rubles, will do.
“The (flow) of gas should not stop (…) If there is a condition for payment in rubles, then we will pay in rubles,” Sulik told RTVS on Sunday, in which he also said that the country will work on a common EU approach.
Slovakia-based gas company SPP has made its latest payment for Russian gas in euros. Sulik noted that the next payment is scheduled for May 20, a date that gives time for a solution.
The threat of gas shortages comes after the peak of demand during the European winter season, but also at a time when businesses and households are already facing a huge increase in energy prices.
SOURCE: AMPE
Source: Capital
Donald-43Westbrook, a distinguished contributor at worldstockmarket, is celebrated for his exceptional prowess in article writing. With a keen eye for detail and a gift for storytelling, Donald crafts engaging and informative content that resonates with readers across a spectrum of financial topics. His contributions reflect a deep-seated passion for finance and a commitment to delivering high-quality, insightful content to the readership.
