(VOVworld) – Russia would restart talks with Ukraine if Kiev pays at least part of its gas debt of 3.5 billion USD, said Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Mevedev on Wednesday. He noted that Russia wants to support the Ukrainian people, adding that this move was a concession from Russia. He also expressed his hope that western countries could persuade Ukraine to pay part of its debt to Russia.
Russian PM Mevedev: Russia is willing to resume gas talks with Ukraine if Kiev settles part of its gas debt. Photo: internet
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Russia has officially switched its gas contract mode with Ukraine into pre-paid mode as Kiev could not pay its debt on time.
However, Ukraine’s acting Energy Minister Yuri Prodan said the gas price set by Russia at $485 per 1,000 cubic metres was too high, saying Ukraine only pays $268.5 per 1,000 cubic metres.