Russian gas shipments through main Black Sea pipeline reach legendary high

(MENAFN) Russian gas exports through the TurkStream pipeline have reached a historic peak, according to Reuters' analysis. This surge in deliveries coincides with Ukraine’s decision to halt its five-year gas transit agreement with Russia, cutting off gas supplies to several EU countries via Ukrainian pipelines.

TurkStream, a crucial energy route under the Black Sea, has become the primary source of Russian gas to southern and southeastern Europe, bypassing Ukraine. In January 2025, gas supplies through TurkStream exceeded 50 million cubic meters per day, marking a 27% increase compared to the previous year, with total exports for the month reaching 1.57 billion cubic meters, up from 1.24 billion cubic meters in January 2024.

Ukraine terminated its gas transit contract with Russian giant Gazprom at the end of 2024, halting gas supplies to countries such as Hungary, Romania, and Poland. Ukrainian President Zelensky defended the decision, stating it was aimed at cutting off Moscow’s energy revenue, while Slovakia and Hungary accused Ukraine of using the move for political gain.

The TurkStream pipeline, with a capacity of 15.75 bcm annually, supplies gas to Turkey and Bulgaria, and extends to Serbia and Hungary, further connecting Russian gas to the EU. Despite challenges, including a recent drone attack by Ukraine on a compressor station, Moscow remains committed to maintaining stable gas flows through TurkStream.

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