Central European Firms Seek Gas Transit Extension

The European Commission has stated it will not engage in discussions to extend the contract for Russian gas transit through Ukraine, which is set to expire at the end of December. This announcement comes as central European energy companies, including Slovakia's SPP and Hungary's MOL, call for a continuation of gas transit, highlighting concerns over potential supply interruptions and price spikes. They plan to present their declaration to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, emphasizing the threat to energy security in the region. Ukraine has expressed its unwillingness to sign new contracts for Russian gas but remains open to negotiations for transit of gas from other sources if approached by the EU. The situation reflects ongoing tensions and dependencies on Russian gas, particularly for Slovakia, Hungary, and Austria, as they seek alternatives amid the ongoing energy crisis exacerbated by the war in Ukraine.