Russia cut off gas supplies to Poland and Bulgaria

On the morning of April 27, 2022, Russian pipeline gas supplies to Poland and Bulgaria were cut off. Formally, the reason for stopping gas supplies is a dispute over payment for raw materials. In connection with the war in Ukraine, Russia has compiled a list of unfriendly countries that provide assistance to the Ukrainian people. This list, in particular, includes almost all countries of the European Union, including the Netherlands. From "unfriendly" countries, Russia demanded to pay for gas in rubles. The EU countries refused to comply with this ultimatum.

All concluded contracts for gas supplies to the EU establish the US dollar or euro as a means of payment. A unilateral change in the terms of the contract by Russia is illegal, which was reported to Russia. However, the policy of using EU energy supplies as a weapon against democratic states was continued. Covering the criminal actions with demagogy about the economic dispute, Russia cut off the gas to Bulgaria and Poland.

It is worth saying that another attempt at blackmail will not benefit the Russians, but will only worsen their image as a reliable supplier. Polish gas storage facilities are 73% full, there are gas pipelines that allow receiving gas from other EU countries, and a terminal for receiving liquefied gas. Poland has long indicated its unwillingness to renew the contract with Gazprom, which expires this year. The Bulgarian government also said that gas consumers in the country would not be affected.