Forty European countries depend on gas from Russia for essential needs like electricity, cooking, factories, and vehicles. However, Ukraine has made a decision that is causing major problems for these countries, especially in the cold winter months. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that gas flowing to Europe through Ukraine has been completely stopped, saying, “We won’t let Russia make money from our suffering.” This decision has created tension among European nations, with some even threatening Ukraine in response. For example, Slovakia and Poland have warned they might cut off Ukraine’s electricity supply.

Since 1991, Russia has supplied gas to Europe through ports and pipelines under an agreement that lasted for 30 years. But Ukraine’s decision has ended this system, leaving many European countries worried. While some countries have reduced how much gas they buy from Russia after its invasion of Ukraine, nations like Slovakia and Austria still rely heavily on it. This reliance brings Russia around USD 5.2 billion in yearly earnings.

Turmoil in Europe

Austria acknowledged the situation, stating, “We have made some preparations, but this is a major crisis. Winter is here, and challenges are inevitable. Gas prices are expected to rise unpredictably by 2025.” Meanwhile, Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico said that while Russia may not be significantly affected, Ukraine’s announcement will have a considerable impact on European nations.

Russian gas passes through Slovakia, which earns revenue from this transit. From there, the gas is supplied to Austria, Hungary, and Italy. With the route now blocked, Slovakia faces increased difficulties. Fico has even threatened to cut off electricity supply to Ukraine. For countries like Slovakia that still need gas from Russia, alternative routes will need to be used, which will increase costs.

On the other hand, Russia is unlikely to face substantial losses. It can continue sending gas to Hungary, Turkey, and Serbia through the TurkStream pipeline across the Black Sea.

Dependence of European Nations on Russian gas

Several European countries, including Slovakia, Austria, and Moldova, rely heavily on gas imports from Russia. While nations like the U.S. and Qatar provide some assistance, their supply falls short of meeting the full demand.

Gas Imports by Key Nations

• Germany: 56 billion cubic meters (BCM)
• Italy: 29 BCM
• Netherlands: 13 BCM
• France and Poland: 10 BCM each

Before sanctions, these countries imported significant amounts of gas from Russia. By 2021, Russia supplied 40% of the European Union’s natural gas needs, with Germany being the largest importer. However, by August 2022, this share dropped to approximately 17%, according to EU data.

Uses of Russian Gas:

• Electricity generation via gas-powered stations.
• Operation of factories.
• Heating homes during winter.
• Cooking in households.

In Moldova, the halt in gas supply has led to a disruption in hot water services in Transnistria. The government has issued advice to residents on how to cope with the cold:

• Wear warm clothes indoors.
• Gather all family members in one room to conserve heat.
• Cover windows with thick blankets to prevent heat loss.

Additionally, residents are urged to stop using gas and rely on electric heaters for warmth. This guidance reflects the severity of the energy crisis in the region.