ROMANIA: Prime Minister Mario Draghi informed Parliament that the Italian government is looking at ways to minimize the country's reliance on Russian gas supplies.

Draghi sought to reassure Italians concerned about increased security threats and rising energy prices as a result of the military war between Russia and Ukraine, saying that "the government is working nonstop to counter the likely implications." Since before the Ukraine crisis, energy prices have been rising in Italy. According to the country's National Institute of Statistics (ISTAT), energy costs increased by 29.1% in December 2021 and by another 38.6% in January, according to reports.

According to preliminary estimates, prices will continue to rise as a result of the crisis.

Draghi stated that Italy imports 95% of its natural gas, with Russia accounting for more than 40% of its overall imports. He noted that while gas imports from Russia are unlikely to be halted, "it is critical to consider all possibilities." With the arrival of spring, the requirement for gas for heating will be reduced. According to him, the government has 2.5 billion cubic meters of gas in reserve, which should allow it to absorb supply disruptions.

He admitted that the "situation risks becoming more problematic for the next winter months, as well as for the near future."

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