German energy ministry believes Russia fulfilling gas supplies obligations

Russia is complying with its obligations under the contracts for gas supplies to Europe, the price spike is associated with many factors, the German Energy Ministry’s spokeswoman, Susanne Ungrad, said on Wednesday.

Ungrad said this amid claims that Moscow was putting influence on the market to speed up Nord Stream 2 pipeline commissioning.

“According to our information, Russia complies with the existing supply agreements,’’ Ungrad said at a news conference.

The spokeswoman mentioned a tough winter, market changes, increased demand for gas, and fires in Siberia among other factors affecting prices.

“We are not aware of any deliberate disregard for the existing contracts,’’ Ungrad assured.

The German Energy Ministry monitored developments but believes the market and enterprises should react, according to the spokeswoman.