Security of oil supply

16.11.2016

Question for written answer E-008621-16
to the Commission
Rule 130
András Gyürk (PPE)

In 2016, the customary supply of oil via Ukraine has altered in several respects. The sale of the Transneft pipeline, followed by the company’s withdrawal from operating it, and the interruption of supplies due to the sale of Bashneft, have all substantially altered the business environment. These changes fit into the picture given in 2012 by Alexey Kornyenkov, head of strategic planning at Gazprom Neft Trading, of the closure of the ‘Friendship’ oil pipeline.

1. Does the Commission consider it to be a realistic possibility that supplies of Russian oil via Ukraine may cease?

2. What economic and political consequences would a possible permanent halt to supplies have?

3. What steps will it take to guarantee security of oil supplies in Eastern European Member States in such circumstances?