Russia cuts off Finland gas flows over payment dispute
Al JazeeraFollowing Russia’s February 24 invasion of Ukraine, Moscow asked clients from ‘unfriendly countries’ to pay for gas in roubles, a way to sidestep sanctions. “Starting from today, during the upcoming summer season, Gasum will supply natural gas to its customers from other sources through the Balticconnector pipeline.” Balticconnector links Finland to neighbouring Estonia’s gas grid. ‘Gas system in balance’ Gazprom Export on Friday said flows would be severed because Gasum had not complied with the new Russian rules requiring settlement in roubles. Following Russia’s February 24 invasion of Ukraine, Moscow has asked clients from “unfriendly countries” – including EU member states – to pay for gas in roubles, a way to sidestep Western financial sanctions against its central bank.