Germany, Turkey, and Italy - some of Gazprom’s largest customers - all boosted imports of Russian gas in the 1st half of 2021, the manager said.
Gazprom’s exports to European countries rose by 23.2% between January and July, Komlev added.
The executive noted:
- These figures prove the absurdity of accusing Gazprom of supply shortage
More than 40 members of the European Parliament from all political groups have reportedly urged the European Commission to launch an investigation into Gazprom over alleged market manipulation that could have contributed to the record-high gas prices in Europe.
During the summer, even with the strong rebound in European gas demand and surging prices, Gazprom did not book additional entry capacity to Europe via Ukraine.
Analysts say that this could have been an opportunistic move from the Russian giant to drive up Europe’s gas prices further and take advantage of the very high prices.
Other analysts think that Gazprom’s effective reduction in supplies would force Europe to recognize that gas customers on the continent need the controversial Nord Stream 2 pipeline to Germany bypassing Ukraine.
Earlier this month, Gazprom said it had completed the construction of Nord Stream 2, although gas flows on the Russia-led pipeline cannot begin until Germany grants an operating license to the project.
Germany’s federal networks regulator BNA said last week it would decide no later than January 8, 2022, whether it will certify Nord Stream 2 and issue an operating license for the pipeline.
Author: Charles Kennedy
