Russia Sees Normalisation in Ukraine; Austria Backs South Stream
Russia claimed it is interested in a progressive normalisation of the situation in Ukraine, saying that “the only way to settle the crisis in Ukraine is through peaceful dialogue.” Russian declarations came while rebel groups opened fire several times in Eastern Ukraine near Kramatorsk, Sloviansk, Artemivsk and other cities. As a consequence, Ukraine broke the ceasefire on Sunday, but remained committed to a normal gas flow of Russian gas to Europe.
‘During the day gunmen undertook consequent armed and mortar attacks on Ukrainian border guards near Chervonopartyzansk, Biriukovo and Nozdrivka in Lugansk region. Provocations continue. Gunmen’s assaults aimed at escalating the situation require strong and immediate international condemnation. Ukraine calls on all international partners to support our sustained efforts to restore peace and unconditional implementation of the Geneva declaration of 17 April by its all Sides,’ reads a joint statement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.
President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko openly called Russia to ensure sufficient protection.
“Russia is expected to ensure sufficient protection of border from terrorists, as well as unconditionally use its absolute impact on illegal terrorist groups in the east of Ukraine to make them immediately ceasefire and lay down their weapons. Any further encouragements for terrorists will have critical consequences,” the press release illustrates.
Eastern Ukraine is particularly rich in hydrocarbons and some companies started explorations in the area.
RUSSIAN GAS TO EUROPE
On Monday, Slovakia’s Eustream said that gas flow from Ukraine was in normal mode.
‘According to the state at 09:00 (CET), 23. June 2014 related to transmission from East to the European Union, Eustream didn´t record pressure reduction or gas volumes decrease at the Compressor Station Veľké Kapušany on the border with Ukraine,’ reads a note published on Monday.
In the while, Austria openly backed the South Stream project on Monday.
"We need not only more suppliers, but also more variety in the routes that energy can flow to us," Foreign Minister Sebastian Kurz said on the eve of a visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin.