Gas talks fail between Russia and Ukraine

Talks between Russia and Ukraine on gas prices have broken up in Moscow without agreement between the bickering pair.

Energy has been a thorn in the side of bilateral relations, with Ukraine holding out for low prices for its consumers and better terms for letting Russian gas transit Ukraine.

“Anyone’s attempts to corner someone never leads to good relations, not to mention strategic relations. Russia is not resorting to such attempts. In relations with Ukraine we are guided by the principles of a strategic partnership,” said Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

Ukraine however is taking the line that it is being bullied, and if it can get no joy from Moscow, then the international court can decide.

“We have enough arguments to present our case in any international court. We think, however, that we’ll very soon find a solution that will suit the modern market situation and the modern market price,” insists Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Konstantin Grishchenko.

Former Ukraine prime minister Yulia Tymoshenko struck a gas deal with Russia in 2009. She is currently on trial in Kiev over the deal, during which she is accused of exceeding her authority.

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