Russia’s Bold Gas Move: Bypassing Ukraine to Supply Europe

Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak has announced plans to supply gas to Europe while bypassing Ukraine. This comes as Ukraine’s President Zelensky refuses to extend the gas transit deal set to expire on December 31, calling it “blood money.” With Europe reliant on Russian gas, especially Slovakia, Hungary, and Italy, the stakes are high. Russia is exploring alternatives like TurkStream and LNG shipments, but EU sanctions and the rise of American LNG complicate the picture. Will Europe sever ties with Russian gas for good, or remain caught in the energy game? Let’s explore the implications.