The Ukrainian gas transit system (GTS) is 100% ready to supply fuel to European consumers, and its joint use with partners from the EU and the US will serve as a collateral warranty and an alternative to the political and economic threats borne by projects such as Nord Stream 2. This was stated by Prime Minister of Ukraine Volodymyr Groysman during CEE as a gas gateway international conference dedicated to the role of the Ukrainian GTS in the energy security of Europe.

The Head of Government stressed that the issue of energy security is more than ever relevant for the European Union. Russia's proposals regarding a new gas pipeline are nothing more than "a new hybrid weapon targeting European states." So, we should be responsible and join efforts to counteract such threats.

"Given the volumes and reliability Ukrainian GTS is capable to provide all consumers. We have excellent storage facilities to accumlate gas", said Volodymyr Groysman. "Russia has taken another course. It aims to build its GTS and thereby to destroy the GTS of Ukraine, and henceforth to have a single leverage on European states."

The Prime Minister reminded that Ukraine had over and over in its history experienced the trickery of Russia, which for years had been holding Kyiv dependent on gas deals.

"Which of the European countries wants to repeat our history?" the Head of Government asked. "These days we can hear statements that Russia would provide guarantees. But who believes in the guarantees of Russia? If in the period of the highest gas consumption Russia decides to restrict supplies to the EU, how long it will take for the governments of the states to resign? How long will it take to keep things going? If Russia dares to do so, the threats will induce irreversible effect in a few days."

The Prime Minister stressed that decisions on energy threats require a greater political will and leadership. And we have it. "We appealed to the EU and the US: friends, let's manage the GTS together - to ensure its steady operation for decades to come", said Volodymyr Groysman. "We cannot afford making mistakes that had been made in Ukraine and had led to the military seizure of the territory of our state."

The Head of Government added that the consensus and understanding of threats would enable us to find solutions and to prevent any aggression.

"Let's be strong and responsible in the face of future generations," said Volodymyr Groysman.

https://www.kmu.gov.ua/en/news/ukrayinska-gts-nadijna-i-perevirena-alternativa-potencijnim-zagrozam-z-boku-pivnichnogo-potoku-2-premyer-ministr