Moscow is addressing the details of gas supplies to unfriendly countries for rubles, though it will not engage in philanthropy if Europe refuses to pay in the Russian currency, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Monday.
Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin requested reporting on measures on the issue before March 31. "The supply process is very complicated," Peskov said, adding that it includes "both the supplies, the payment, as well as adjustment of balances." "Currently all modalities are being developed by the departments, with Gazprom, after which a clear timeframe will be defined," he said when asked what particularly should be implemented during this period.
Kremlin Spokesman refrained from providing details on what measures Russia might take if Europe refuses to pay for gas in rubles, noting that "issues should be solved as available." "But we will definitely not supply gas for free, this is absolutely for sure. It is hardly possible and reasonable to engage in philanthropy in our situation," he said.
Earlier, Putin requested moving payments for gas supplies to unfriendly countries to rubles, saying that Moscow would refuse accepting payments on such contracts in discredited currencies, including dollars and euros.
