Pumping gas through the North Stream pipeline was stopped from 11 to 22 of September 2017 due to annual planned repairs. “Gazprom” sent to “Naftogas” an increased request for gas transportation to Europe. According to “Naftogas” officials, Ukrainian GTS is capable and is ready to replace the capacity of the North Stream pipeline, although the current contract doesn’t provide for such fluctuations. How is Ukrainian GTS significant for gas transit to Europe and does the Russian side remain dependent on it, despite the construction of alternative transit routes?

“The Ukrainian gas transportation system is currently in good condition. It has a capacity surplus”, — Director of Energy programs at the Razumkov Centre Volodymyr Omelchenko said to “Radio Svoboda”. — Despite undermining of some pipelines by separatists in 2014, it functioned. It is very stress resistant. The technological state of the Ukrainian GTS is no worse than that of Poland, Hungary or Slovakia, and in much better condition than in Russia.”

The Ukrainian GTS remains significant for both the EU and Russia, despite everything, Omelchenko said. Moreover, it will remain important even if North Stream-2 project is being implemented.

The Ukrainian GTS will be more reliable than both North Stream and North Stream II, which will be stopped permanently for repairs and will not have appropriate underground gas storage facilities. Therefore they cannot fully ensure the reliability and security of deliveries during the peak period. Volodymyr Omelchenko said.

“Both the EU and Russia will remain dependent on the Ukrainian GTS for a long time. Today and in the future, no alternative GTS can create a competition for Ukrainian one”, — Ukrainian expert said.