Ukrainian GTS cannot be leased out until law on pipeline transport is changed, says expert

10:23, 12.03.2013 1 min read

The lease of the Ukrainian gas transportation system (GTS) to Russia's gas monopoly Gazprom jeopardizes national interests of Ukraine, independent energy expert Volodymyr Saprykin said on air of Channel 5.

In his words, Ukrainian legislation prohibits the lease of the Ukrainian GTS, which is also contrary to the regulations of the European Energy Community, whose member Ukraine is, the press service of Channel 5 reported.

"It is quite dangerous despite the potential benefits in terms of reduced [natural gas] prices. After all, we are a member of the Energy Community, there are certain obligations, including concerning the cooperation with Gazprom, which has not reformed and is not going to reform," Saprykin said.

The expert stressed that unless the law is changed, these can be no lease of the GTS.

"The law prohibits this. The parliament is currently not working. I believe that this is legally impossible to do. How can this be done in violation to the law?" the expert said.