Ukraine reportedly holds 16 billion cubic metres of natural gas in underground storage facilities. But who actually owns this gas?
For decades, Russia accused Ukraine of siphoning gas from pipelines crossing its territory. Ukraine disputed those allegations.
Could some of that historically disputed gas have entered European markets? Are European buyers fully aware of the origins and ownership history of the gas they purchase?
These are legitimate questions. With billions of euros involved in European energy trade, greater transparency over gas ownership and transactions is essential.
The fact that gas is stored beneath Ukrainian territory does not necessarily mean Ukraine owns it. Underground storage facilities can hold gas belonging to foreign companies and traders.
Were historical allegations of unauthorized diversions ever independently investigated and resolved? Can European buyers establish a clear chain of ownership for gas withdrawn from these facilities?
Without transparent documentation, such questions remain unanswered.