US Ambassador to Ukraine William Taylor has sharply criticized the pattern of gas supplies to Ukraine. The current system of gas transportation from Russian and Central Asia to Europe “is difficult to understand: it is not transparent enough,” the diplomat said.
The American ambassador believes that transparency of gas supplies from Central Asia and Russia to Europe via Ukraine will only make gas cooperation in the region more effective. “Transparency will help to conclude better contracts,” he told members of the US Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Kyiv. “Most people understand that you must know who you are dealing with, whether you can trust the other person or not. It is very important to have transparency here,” he emphasized.
Asked by a journalist if the US will help Ukraine in the event that the Ukrainian-Russian gas deals are revised or broken, the ambassador said, “If they (Ukraine and Russia) decide that there will be changes, naturally we will support you.” At the same time, he emphasized that he meant expert, consultative, and diplomatic assistance.
Commenting on the European community’s likely reaction to the severing of gas agreements between Ukraine and Russia, Ambassador Taylor said, “I hope that Europe will at least be monitoring these talks.” The US diplomat stressed again that this issue is the exclusive preserve of Ukraine and Russia.
Taylor also noted that the whole world is waiting for Ukraine to form a government. He pointed out that once the cabinet begins to function, the Verkhovna Rada will begin passing resolutions that will have an impact on Europe and Russia. “Ukraine’s decisions will set an example for other countries in this region,” he said. The US ambassador believes that Ukraine has great potential and will play a serious role in the world arena.
