Janice R. Andrews
European nations are spearheading efforts to connect Ukraine with Azerbaijani gas supplies, potentially weakening Russia’s energy influence in the region. As Ukraine’s current gas contract with Moscow approaches its end this year, Hungary and Slovakia are actively pursuing negotiations to establish alternative supply channels through Azerbaijan, Bloomberg reports.
The proposed arrangement could significantly impact Russian revenues, despite Putin’s traditionally strong relations with both Hungary and Slovakia. The plan would allow Ukraine to tap into a new energy source while utilizing existing pipeline infrastructure.
Yet challenges remain. While Europe seeks 12-14 billion cubic meters of gas annually from Azerbaijan, Baku’s current infrastructure capacity falls short of meeting these requirements. Adding to the uncertainty, Slovak officials have recently downplayed reports of an imminent agreement, indicating that negotiations are still in progress.
