EU energy ministers gathered in Luxembourg on Tuesday, October 15, to discuss the transit of Russian natural gas through Ukraine, Paralel.Az reports citing Bloomberg.

The outlet noted that this situation is a matter of concern in Europe, as the current agreement between Moscow and Kyiv on gas transit expires on December 31 this year.

Despite the war in Ukraine, Russian gas continues to flow to the European Union, albeit in smaller volumes. Flows through Ukraine account for less than 5% of the EU's total gas imports, but it remains an important source for some countries, such as Slovakia and Austria.

Discussions are currently underway in Europe to find alternative sources of supply. Azerbaijan is considered one of the potential candidates. However, the realization of this scenario is complicated by political factors and logistical difficulties.

“Azerbaijan SOCAR can take on the role of Gazprom and sell gas to Europe, or the company can facilitate transit through Ukraine,” the report says.