European Commission confirms stable energy markets after Ukraine ends Russian gas transit
Ukraine’s decision to halt the transit of Russian gas through its pipeline system has not affected the energy security of European Union member states or consumer prices, a European Commission official said during a press briefing in Brussels. Anna-Kaisa Ikonen, the Commission’s representative, addressed potential concerns, including those raised by Slovakia, following Kyiv’s decision to suspend transit, Interfax-Ukraine reported.
"This unfolded as expected," Ikonen stated. "We’ve been working closely with member states and Ukraine for over a year to prepare for this scenario. Last week, we convened an emergency gas coordination group to assess the end of the transit agreement, and the conclusion was clear—there are no issues or concerns regarding energy supply security for the EU after the transit halt. As for prices, the markets already anticipated this move, and we haven’t observed any price spikes in the new year."
Ikonen emphasized that fundamental market indicators remain stable. "Demand is still around 18% lower than pre-crisis levels, and gas storage levels exceed pre-crisis benchmarks," she noted.
She also pointed out that record levels of renewable energy deployment across Europe have been key to maintaining stability.
"With the colder months ahead, the European Commission is closely monitoring member states to track energy prices," Ikonen added.
Ukraine responds to gas transit halt
Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs commented on the decision to end Russian gas transit, framing it as a strategic move to deprive Russian President Vladimir Putin of one of his last tools of influence over Europe.
"Moscow’s empire has lost its ability to manipulate politicians and entire countries," said Mykhailo Podolyak, an adviser to the Ukrainian president’s office.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced plans to introduce a new operational model for the country’s gas transportation system.
EU’s flexible gas infrastructure
The European Commission reaffirmed that the EU’s gas infrastructure is sufficiently flexible to handle the transition. However, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico warned that the transit halt could have "serious consequences for EU members but not for Russia."
Meanwhile, Western media reported that Russia might target Ukraine’s gas infrastructure following the transit shutdown.
Energy crisis in Transnistria
After Ukraine halted the transit of Russian gas, Moldova’s breakaway region of Transnistria faced severe energy shortages. Central heating and hot water supplies were cut off due to a lack of gas deliveries, with reports indicating reserves could run out within a month.
Industrial operations in Transnistria also came to a halt due to the energy crisis.
Moldovan government spokesman Daniel Voda accused Russia of leaving Transnistria without heat and using Gazprom to pressure Moldova. Moldova offered to assist Transnistria with gas purchases, but Transnistrian authorities rejected the offer, imposing rolling blackouts instead.
Debt dispute over gas payments
Transnistrian separatists demanded that Moldova pay for Russian gas supplies to the region. Vadim Krasnoselsky, head of the self-proclaimed Transnistrian Moldovan Republic, accused Moldova of attempting to shift a $709 million debt to Gazprom onto Transnistria.
Moldova avoids blackout
Despite the crisis, Moldova secured alternative electricity sources and avoided widespread blackouts. The government also reaffirmed its readiness to assist Transnistria with securing gas supplies, but the separatist region maintained its refusal to accept help, continuing to impose power cuts.
The developments highlight the broader geopolitical and economic implications of Ukraine’s decision to halt Russian gas transit, further isolating Moscow while underscoring Europe’s shift toward energy independence.
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