**EU Energy Market Remains Stable**
The European Union‘s energy market is still stable after Ukraine stopped Russian natural gas transit through its territory. This change happened on January 1, and the EU was prepared for it.
Ukraine had warned that it wouldn’t extend the agreement because it didn’t want to help Russia with its war efforts. The EU worked with Ukraine and other member states to get ready for this scenario over a year ago.
The Gas Coordination Group met last week and found no security issues or concerns for the European Union. The spokesperson, Anna-Kaisa Itkonen, said that the markets had already factored in the end of the transit agreement, and there were no price spikes in the new year.
**Hungary and Slovakia React**
Some countries, like Hungary and Slovakia, are against Ukraine’s decision to stop Russian gas transit. Their leaders had warned about “radical consequences” for everyone in the European Union.
However, the EU says that everything is fine, and the energy market remains stable. The Gas Coordination Group found no security issues or concerns for the European Union after the end of the transit.
**Ukraine’s Situation**
The situation in Ukraine is still difficult. Russian troops have allegedly killed three Ukrainian prisoners of war. Two Russian airliners had to return to their departure airports due to engine failures shortly after takeoff.
Overnight, Russia attacked Ukraine with two Kh-59 cruise missiles and 128 Shahed-type drones and dummy drones. The battles are ongoing in the Kurakhove sector.
**Global Reaction**
The global reaction to these events is varied. Some leaders, like French President Emmanuel Macron, are calling for “realistic discussions on territorial issues” between Ukraine and Russia.
Others, like US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, are supporting Ukraine’s position. He said that their position in Kursk is important because it would factor into any negotiation in the coming year.
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