Russia and the European Union have signed an accord to get gas flowing into the EU again.

The deal calls for Russian, Ukrainian and EU monitors to observe the flow of gas from Russia through Ukraine to the EU. The move is an attempt to calm Russian fears that Ukraine is siphoning off gas, meant for Europe, for its own use. Ukraine denies any gas theft. Russia cut off supplies to Ukraine last week over a row over unpaid bills and prices. Czech Prime Minister Mirek Topolanek, representing the EU held talks wth Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin: “I hope you manage to persuade our Ukrainian partners of the need to sign an agreement, which could set up a mechanism to control the flow of gas through Ukraine,” said Putin. Topolanek now heads for Kiev for meetings in the hope that Ukraine puts pen to paper. Even if a deal is reached, deliveries will resume to Europe and not Ukraine. As the former allies have failed to sign an energy deal for this year.More about: Russia, Ukraine

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