Ukraine begins Azerbaijani gas imports via Trans-Balkan corridor

Ukraine's state-owned Naftogaz Group has signed its first agreement to purchase Azerbaijani natural gas from SOCAR Energy Ukraine, marking a strategic step to diversify its energy sources and enhance energy security. The initial test shipment is being delivered via the Trans-Balkan corridor, which runs through Bulgaria, Romania, and into Ukraine. Naftogaz CEO Serhiy Koretskyi emphasized the importance of this small-volume deal as the foundation for long-term cooperation between Ukraine and Azerbaijan. To support gas reserves ahead of the 2025/2026 heating season, Naftogaz secured loans totaling UAH 9.4 billion from Ukrgasbank and PrivatBank. The deal has received support from the Ukrainian government and the Ministry of Energy, highlighting the broader strategic partnership between the two nations. This move represents a significant diversification of Ukraine's gas supply routes amid ongoing regional energy challenges.