You're reading: Russia will mull discount on gas, Ukraine will buy enough gas for storage

BRUSSELS – Ukrainian Minister of Energy and Coal Industry Volodymyr Demchyshyn, Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak and European Commission Vice President Maros Sefcovic have held tripartite negotiations in Brussels on gas supplies to Ukraine and preparations for a new winter season.

Following the meeting, the parties managed to agree on a joint statement.

The document, in particular, notes that the Russian Federation will consider the possibility of reducing gas prices by eliminating export duties, this decision will be made quarterly by the Russian government.

At the same time, Ukraine must evaluate the purchase of gas amount needed to fill gas storage facilities to ensure uninterrupted gas transit to the European Union.

The European Commission promised to make every possible effort to find adequate financial support for gas purchase for Ukraine.

The statement reads the experts of the three sides should begin work on these issues and submit draft proposals by the next ministerial meeting.

“We had a constructive first meeting after the winter package. I am happy the parties were able to agree on a joint statement and steps forward,” Sefcovic said.