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Russia has no role in fuel price hikes, EU politicians are to blame - minister

Novak said Russian supplies make up 40% of consumption by European countries and Russia has always been a reliable partner while Gazprom is in full compliance with its contractual obligations for gas supplies

MOSCOW, March 8. /TASS/. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said Russia has nothing to do with soaring prices for oil and natural gas in the world market and blamed the hikes on statements by European politicians.

He highlighted statements by European politicians on energy issues, such as calls to reject Russian oil and gas. According to him, European officials are again trying to shift the blame for failures of their energy policy in recent years onto Russia.

"As a result, we are seeing a sharp increase of prices for energy resources," he said. "I state with all responsibility that Russia has nothing to do with the current soaring prices and market volatility."

Novak said Russian supplies make up 40% of consumption by European countries and Russia has always been a reliable partner while Gazprom is in full compliance with its contractual obligations for gas supplies.

In addition, he said gas supplies through Ukraine were increased to 109 million cubic meters per day, which is equivalent to about 40 billion cubic meters per year. "This is transit through Ukraine, and it is 100% fulfilled today," the minister said. "Also, deliveries are made through Nord Stream 1, Yamal - Europe, Turkish Stream, Blue Stream."

Novak also added that Russia, due to unfounded accusations regarding the energy crisis in Europe and the ban on Nord Stream 2, has every right to make a tit-for-tat move and impose an embargo on gas supplies through Nord Stream 1, which now works at 100% of its capacity.

"But so far we are not making this decision," he said. "No one will benefit from this. Although European politicians are pushing us to this with their statements and accusations against Russia.".

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