Bulgaria Plans to Halt Gas Purchases from Russia

Bulgaria plans to stop buying Russian gas by the end of 2027, which will effectively mean the cessation of transit to Hungary and Slovakia, stated Bulgaria's Energy Minister Zhecho Stankov.

“As an EU member, Bulgaria aligns its actions with European legislation and policies, including a phased withdrawal from Russian energy resources by the end of 2027,” he said in an interview with the European publication Politico.

The minister expects that by January 1, 2028, “the consumption of Russian gas in Europe will be completely eliminated.” He added that “Hungary and Slovakia will not have energy security issues,” as they will be able to find alternative routes for gas purchases.

Stankov also noted that his country is consulting with neighboring countries about the possibility of conducting joint tenders for long-term contracts for the supply of American liquefied natural gas via Bulgaria, a possible scheme that could begin “starting next year.”