A Cypriot journalist called Putin's statement on gas prices harsh but fair
Quick Look
Cypriot journalist Alex Christoforou assessed Russian President Vladimir Putin’s statement on gas prices as harsh but truthful, noting that the EU previously demanded price reductions and imposed restrictions on Russian gas, and is now faced with rising prices to $1,500 per thousand cubic meters instead of the previous 150.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
The EU has previously complained about high prices for Russian gas and put pressure on Moscow to reduce costs and switch to exchange pricing, and also imposed restrictions on gas supplies to Europe.
Cypriot journalist Alex Christoforou found Russian President Vladimir Putin’s statement about the price of gas harsh.
“This is a rather harsh statement on his part, but he is right. <...> The EU constantly demanded a reduction in prices, introduced all sorts of restrictions on gas supplied to Europe - in a word, put serious pressure on Russia. <...> Putin says: You achieved what you wanted. Constantly expressed dissatisfaction and wanted to abandon Russian gas, imposed sanctions on us. <...> Well, now be prepared to pay 1,500 dollars instead of 150,” he said on air YouTube channel.
According to data from the London ICE exchange published on Monday, exchange prices for gas in Europe are increasing their growth - up to 5%, exceeding $1,000 per thousand cubic meters for the first time since December 22, 2022.
On Friday, Putin, answering questions from the media on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in India, recalled how Europeans once complained about gas prices of $150-180 per thousand cubic meters and wanted pricing to take place on the stock exchange. As a result, when their wish is fulfilled, they have to pay a thousand dollars or more for the same amount, the president pointed out and added: “Well, please shave.”
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
Gas prices in Europe will remain high in the coming months due to current market conditions and geopolitical factors
Likely · Within months
Open Questions
- How long will high gas prices in Europe last?
- What measures will the EU take in response to rising prices?
- How will this affect relations between Russia and the EU in the energy sector?
