Ukraine has begun importing natural gas through the Trans-Balkan pipeline, marking a major step in reducing its reliance on Russian energy. This move allows Ukraine to access gas from European sources, including liquefied natural gas (LNG) imported through Greece and supplies from Azerbaijan via the Trans Adriatic Pipeline.
The Trans-Balkan pipeline, once used to carry Russian gas south, has now been reversed. It will transport non-Russian gas northward into Ukraine. A Ukrainian energy ministry official told Reuters that up to 1 billion cubic meters (bcm) of gas could be imported through the route by October, with June imports estimated at 100 million cubic meters.
Ukraine stopped transporting Russian gas to Europe at the end of 2024 after deciding not to renew its agreement with Russian state-owned Gazprom. Ukrainian officials stressed that no Russian gas would enter the country through this new corridor.
The European Commission has backed the project as part of its REPowerEU strategy, which aims to cut the EU’s dependence on Russian fossil fuels.
Recent reports from Argus Media and Pipeline & Gas Journal confirmed that capacity auctions for the Trans-Balkan route have begun, signaling market interest and the pipeline’s operational readiness.
The new gas corridor is both a geopolitical and infrastructure milestone for Ukraine, especially as the country continues to face war and instability.
Since Ukraine halted the transit of Russian gas, Russia has boosted exports to Europe through the TurkStream pipeline. In May 2025, Russia’s daily gas exports via pipelines rose 10% from April, averaging 46 million cubic meters.
The Trans-Balkan route is a joint effort by gas operators from Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, and Ukraine. It connects Greece’s Revithoussa LNG terminal with Ukraine, offering a direct path for gas imports that avoids Russian territory.
The pipeline can handle up to 1 bcm annually. It also benefits from discounted tariffs—25% lower than standard rates, and 46% lower for deliveries into Ukraine.
According to the Kyiv Post, this regional cooperation strengthens Ukraine’s energy independence and boosts energy security in southeastern Europe. The corridor is expected to play a key role during the 2025–26 winter heating season.
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