Reactions to Russia Saying Gas Buyers Must Pay in Roubles

A model of the natural gas pipeline is placed on a Russian rouble banknote and a flag in this illustration taken on March 23, 2022. Reuters

Following are reactions to Russian President Vladimir Putin saying foreign buyers of Russian gas must pay in roubles from April 1, and that contracts would be halted if these payments were not made.

German Economy Minister Robert Habeck

“With regard to the threat, demand, or consideration—one doesn’t know how to call it any more—to be made to pay in rouble, it is crucial for us that the contracts are respected.”

“It is important for us not to give a signal that we will be blackmailed by Putin.”

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz

“By all means, it remains the case that companies want, can, and will pay in euro.”

German Finance Minister Christian Lindner

“We are convinced that contracts are contracts. The contracts are based on euro and so we will continue to pay for energy imports in euro.”