Relations between Russia and Ukraine are as cold as the weather. Before the deal was struck, it was reported that Ukraine had refused a demand for Russian observers to work alongside the EU monitors.

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said: “I think we have reached the moment of truth. Those who want to resolve problems find the means to do so. Those who are not ready to face them find reasons why such-and-such action cannot be undertaken.” Countless homes and businesses across central and Eastern Europe were left literally out in the cold. Several countries in the region rely virtually totally on Russian gas. Serbia has asked Germany for emergency supplies. And Hungary,itself the subject of shortages, is helping out with gas from its reserves.More about: European Union, Gas, Russia, Ukraine

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