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EU DECLARATION ON THE RUSSIA/UKRAINE PROBLEM AND ENERGY SECURITY

The present situation caused by interruptions of gas supplies from
Russia via the Ukraine creates serious difficulties for a number of EU
countries. 

1. The present situation caused by interruptions of gas supplies from
Russia via the Ukraine creates serious difficulties for a number of EU
countries. Given the importance attached to solidarity within the EU,
this is a problem for the EU as such. It is unacceptable for the EU to
see its citizens and enterprises suffering from gas shortages due to the
non respect by both partner countries of their contractual obligations. 

2. With the first evidence of gas supply reductions in early January
2009, the EU has undertaken concerted efforts to facilitate the dialogue
between Russia and the Ukraine. Both sides have to date shown
insufficient determination to solve the problem, which damages their
credibility. The EU, however, expects that the current negotiations will
bring a quick solution. It urges Russia and the Ukraine to honour their
obligations as supplier respectively transit country and to immediately
resume normal deliveries to the European market.

3. The EU calls on both parties to accept independent monitoring of the
actual flows of gas through the pipelines.

4.  A special Energy Council will take place on 12 January in order to
look at the situation on the energy market, including monitoring, and to
discuss the concrete measures to be taken.

5. The EU also insists on the necessity to create the conditions for a
long term solution, based on internationally recognized principles, thus
putting an end to regularly occurring crises in the midst of winter.

6. Security of energy supply is a priority for the EU. It involves the
responsibility and solidarity of all the Member States. Therefore, the
EU will speed up work on the various energy security initiatives
mentioned under paragraph 17 of the October EC conclusions. Particular
emphasis will be put on priority interconnections both within the EU and
with supplier and transit countries, increased transparency, and the
developing of crisis mechanisms to tackle temporary supply disruptions.

Energy security will be on the agenda of the upcoming General Affairs
Councils with a view to reaching decisions at the Spring European
Council. 

 

EU-Verklaring d.d. 8 januari 2009