Further issues arise with the supply of Gas to Europe

On 13 January 2009 the Russian energy company Gazprom began shipping natural gas to European customers through Ukrainian transit lines after halting shipments on 7 January. However, shortly after shipments resumed, Gazprom accused Ukraine of blocking them. Some reports indicate that the Ukrainian company Naftohaz has admitted to blocking the supply, stating that it was in response to "unacceptable" conditions being imposed on the transit, while other reports state that the company is blaming low pressure in the lines. Regardless, monitors have reported that there is no gas running through the line. When pumping began at 0730 UTC, the gas supply was expected to reach European destinations within 24 and 36 hours; however, the new developments further delay any relief for those European countries being severely affected by the dispute.