France Refuses to Pay for Russian Gas in Rubles

Barbara Pompili, the Minister of Ecological Transition said that France will continue to pay for Russian gas in euros or dollars.

"We intend to express our solidarity with our European allies, as well as our commitment to the rules of the contract that it cannot be completely violated. We will continue to pay in euros or dollars, according to the contracts," Pompili said.

She added that a decision can only be taken at the European level, noting that the EU ministers responsible for energy will continue to develop a common policy aimed at reducing dependence on Russian gas.

Pompili indicated that the Europeans have already started such work in the field of gas storage, and are now establishing a single base in this field, as well as in the field of joint gas purchase.

According to the Minister, this will help persify supplies and become less dependent on Russia.