Ukraine purchased no Russian gas for over 1100 days, - Hroisman
Ukraine has stayed without Russian gas for more than 1100 days. It used to be the key energy source for Ukraine and the reason for its dependence on Russia until 2014.
As reported by Censor.NET citing the Government Portal, Ukraine Prime Minister Volodymyr Hroysman said this at a government meeting.
Today’s meeting began with a one-minute silence in the memory of Ukrainian soldiers who defended Donetsk airport for 242 days. Prime Minister emphasized that Ukraine warrior’s struggle for independence should be remembered.
"We have to do everything possible to preserve our independence," Hroisman said.
He also mentioned independence was not only a political category, but also an economic ability to develop.
"Russia’s gas was a weapon used against Ukraine and its independence," said Hroisman.
He reminded the decision to stop using Russian gas was difficult, but it was nonetheless reached.
"It helped strengthen our independence and avoid pressure imposed on the state. Now there is a clear task for us which is not about changing the supplier, but providing ourselves with gas according to our needs. To this end, we have to multiply the production. We have made a breakthrough in this direction through the deregulation and introduction of transparent auctions. We also have to implement energetic efficiency programs. We are launching the Energy Efficiency Fund very soon. It is necessary to modernize the industry and, consequently, to modernize the economy. We have to preserve our gas transportation capacity and stay integrated into European gas market," the prime minister mentioned.
