Naftohaz to get written consent from Gazprom not to fine Ukraine for gas purchases shortfalls

November23200920:15

Naftohaz and Russia Gazprom leaders are expected to sign a document confirming Gazporm’s agreement not to impose fines on Ukraine for its failure to buy less than the contractual amount of the Russian gas in 2009, Naftohaz president Oleh Dubyna told journalists in Kyiv Nov. 23.

“Tomorrow we will sign a document that the actual amount of gas bought by Ukraine in 2009 was 25 billion cu. m. We will also sign a supply contract for 2010.” Dubyna specified. The signing of the first document amounts to a confirmation by Russia that no sanctions will be imposed on Ukraine, the official said.

On Nov. 20, Premier Vladimir Putin reassured journalists at his join press conference with Yulia Tymoshenko in Yalta that Russia won’t force sanctions on Ukraine for its shortfalls in gas purchases.

“We are fully aware that the amounts of gas supplies have dwindled. Taking into account our special relations with Ukraine, between Gazprom and Naftohaz, we have agreed not to go ahead with the sanctions,” Putin added.