In brief
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that vital supplies of US liquefied natural gas will start flowing into Ukraine this winter through a pipeline from Greece. The agreement follows a meeting with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and aims to replace Russian gas, which the EU plans to ban by 2027. As Russian military operations target Ukrainian energy facilities, concerns over an energy crisis this winter grow.
Vital supplies of US liquefied natural gas are due to start flowing into war-ravaged Ukraine this winter via a pipeline across the Balkans.
The deal was announced after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Athens on Sunday. Greece is working to increase the flow of American LNG to its terminals to 'replace Russian gas in the region', Mitsotakis said recently.
The European Commission plans to ban all imports of Russian gas to EU member states by the end of 2027, arguing revenue from such sales funds Russia's war in Ukraine.
In Ukraine, which experiences freezing winters, there are fears of an energy crisis as Russia attacks energy facilities.
Zelensky is currently in France, where he and President Emmanuel Macron signed a letter of intent to buy up to 100 Rafale jets. Fighting continued overnight, with reports of casualties from Russian attacks in several regions.
Speaking earlier in Athens, Zelensky stated that deliveries of US LNG would begin in January. 'Greece is becoming an energy security provider for your homeland,' Mitsotakis told Zelensky. Approximately €2 billion has been allocated for gas imports to cover the upcoming winter months.
With winter approaching, the UN warns that intensified attacks on energy networks could undermine efforts to maintain warmth in homes, schools, and health centers throughout Ukraine.
