President of Ukraine on Friday 2^nd of March held an extraordinary meeting on Gazprom’s announcement to terminate its contract with Naftogaz and stop supplying natural gas to Ukraine.

According to the decision of National Security and Defense Councilyesterday, Energy Headquarters took decision to reduce consumption of gas. By taking such measures we managed to stabilize the situation in severe weather conditions and overcame all efforts of the Russian Federation to create inconvenience for Ukraine.

“No doubt, we will calmly and firmly overcome the crises. Neither economic, nor social spheres will be effected” – President stated.

Also president welcomed Naftogaz’s efforts to purchase extra gas volumes from our European partners.

“Our Polish partners reassured me that all necessary volumes will be provided to Ukraine” Petro Poroshenko said.

He also carefully studied the contract between Naftogaz and Gazprom – “They do not have a provision that allow a party to unilaterally terminate it. Such announcement of Gazprom can be explained only by its unwillingness to execute its contractual obligations”. In case it happens, President is sure that Naftogaz will apply to arbitration to get a new compensation for actions of Gazprom.

President of Ukraine added that as soon as it is getting colder both Russia and Gazprom are trying to usegaz supplies as a tool for political pressure. This will not work this time. Ukraine is a reliable partner and these events only confirm this fact”.