Vienna
Russian energy giant Gazprom has announced it will stop gas deliveries to Austria, effective from Saturday. This move follows a recent arbitration ruling in favor of Austrian energy company OMV, which was awarded 230 million euros ($242 million) in a dispute over irregular gas deliveries from Gazprom.
OMV, Gazprom’s sole contractual partner in Austria, confirmed in a statement that it would immediately offset the awarded amount against its payment obligations to Gazprom, effectively halting further payments. The arbitration ruling has led to the suspension of gas supply, a decision that comes amid rising tensions between the two parties.
Austrian Energy Minister Leonore Gewessler reassured the public on social media, stating that Austria had prepared for this situation in advance. She confirmed that the country’s energy supply remains secure, with domestic gas storage levels filled to over 90%, enough to meet Austria’s needs for an entire year. Gewessler also criticized Russia for “using energy as a weapon.”
Chancellor Karl Nehammer echoed these sentiments, stressing at a press conference that Austria has sufficient gas reserves and that “nobody has to freeze in Austria.”
Historically, Austria has relied heavily on Russian gas, with more than 80% of its gas imports coming from Russia in August 2024. However, OMV’s successful diversification of supply sources and full storage facilities have helped secure the country’s energy future.
