Interfax-Ukraine cited Mr Mykola Azarov Ukrainian Prime Minister as saying that he hopes that a compromise solution will be reached at Ukrainian-Russian talks on the gas price.

Mr Azarov said when asked how the gas talks with Russia will end and whether Ukraine will manage to agree on the revision of the contract that "The negotiations that are taking place are difficult, and this is due to the fact that an extremely unequal agreement between Russia and Ukraine was signed in 2009. Under this agreement, Russia received a number of very serious advantages. The price at which we now get gas is the most expensive on the European market."

Mr Azarov said that Ukraine buys gas from Russia at a price higher than, for example, Germany. He said that "Of course, the negotiations are difficult."

He added that "But at the same time, I would like to note that I'm deeply convinced that proceeding, first and foremost, from the strategic interests of our future cooperation, a compromise solution will be reached. The negotiations have been intensified over the last few days, adding that concerned ministers met repeatedly and held talks.”

He also said "I think that there is hope that we will work out a compromise solution in the next few days. It's especially important for us, because the New Year will begin. We would like to enter the New Year with an upgraded agreement, and with normal prices that will not undermine our economy."

(Sourced from Interfax-Ukraine)