KYIV, August 18, 2025 — Ukraine may continue importing natural gas from Azerbaijan through the Trans-Balkan corridor, Ukrainian Energy Minister Svitlana Hrynchuk told RBC-Ukraine in an interview.
“The pilot project for gas supplies from Azerbaijan to Ukraine via the Trans-Balkan corridor has already been completed. Work is now underway to prepare a contract that would allow such deliveries to continue,” Hrynchuk said.
She noted that Azerbaijan is interested in the arrangement, and that Kyiv is currently holding negotiations:
“If the agreement is signed, we will proceed with imports,” the minister confirmed.
At the same time, Hrynchuk warned of existing military risks, as Russian forces have recently intensified strikes against gas infrastructure supporting import operations.
The development follows Ukraine’s moves earlier this year to simplify the regulatory framework for gas transport along the Trans-Balkan route, making larger volumes technically possible. In July, state energy company Naftogaz signed its first deal with SOCAR for Azerbaijani gas deliveries.
While the volumes remain small, Naftogaz has described the initiative as a strategic step toward deeper cooperation. Trial shipments have been carried out through the Bulgaria–Romania–Ukraine section of the corridor.
Experts say Azerbaijani gas imported via the Trans-Balkan corridor will not significantly affect Ukraine’s preparations for the coming winter. However, in the longer term, such imports could play an important role in strengthening the country’s energy security.
