Czech Enovy: "Foolish" to Rely on Gas Via Ukraine

It is foolish to expect gas to flow as usual through Ukraine this winter and Europe must brace for disruption along the route that typically carries almost half of Russia's exports to the European Union, a top Czech energy official said on Monday. Speaking at the Reuters Eastern European Investment Summit, Czech energy security ambassador Vaclav Bartuska said he doubted a ceasefire between the Ukraine government and Russian-backed separatists would hold through the winter…
Ukraine's Gas Dispute Could Mean Cold Winter for Central, East Europe
Central and southeastern Europe could face higher gas prices and potential shortages this winter, as a prolonged price row between Russia and Ukraine heightens regional supply fears. The former Soviet countries, many of which receive most or all of their gas from Russia via Ukraine, have been scrambling to fill storage tanks and arrange alternate supply sources to prepare for the winter heating season. In June, Russian natural gas exporter Gazprom cut off gas deliveries for use by Ukraine in a dispute over unpaid bills…