Gazprom’s plan includes stopping natural gas transit through Ukraine when the current deal expires at the end of the year, according to Bloomberg’s sources.

Despite the fact that natural gas transport through Ukraine represent less than 5% of the quantities supplied to Europe, countries such as Slovakia are still dependent on this supply and are looking for alternatives, such as an agreement with Azerbaijan. However, no agreement has yet been reached.

With tensions in Ukraine rising, the continuation of natural gas shipments is becoming a political issue. Moscow says it is willing to continue supplying natural gas, but Kiev is reluctant because of the economic benefits for Russia. Gas markets in Europe are volatile, with high prices and uncertainty about alternative supplies.

If Russian gas shipments stop, Europe will face difficulties in replenishing its reserves, especially after the cold start to winter. While reducing its dependence on Russian pipeline gas, Europe is increasingly dependent on LNG imports from Russia and the US.

OR Slovakia is considering alternative routesbut time is running out. Austria’s OMV was recently cut off from supplying Gazprom after failing to make payments, while Gazprombank, which handles payments for Russian gas in Europe, has been sanctioned by the US.