Transit of Russian gas through Ukraine has grown

The size of Russian gas transit to the EU through Ukraine from January 1 to June 1, 2017 rose to the highest level in the last 5 years.

The transit of Russian natural gas through Ukraine's transmission system in the first five months of 2017 increased by 22 percent compared to the same period in 2016, and by as much as 64 percent compared to the same period in 2015, Ukrtransgaz reported.

This change is dictated by a much higher demand from European gas consumers, which is caused by a colder and longer winter than in previous years.

This significant increase in transit means that Ukraine will receive more from transit fees than in previous years. The possible amount will be up to two billion dollars.

The first comments of the Russian side are interesting. In their opinion, the increased demand for gas transmission through Ukraine is the basis for the construction of Nord Stream 2.