Putin Warns Of "Direct Attempts" To Hinder Work Of Gas Giant Gazprom
NDTV
European countries were heavily reliant on Gazprom for natural gas supplies but have since raced for other sources after Russia dispatched troops to Ukraine
President Vladimir Putin lashed out Friday against "direct attempts" to hinder work of Russian gas giant Gazprom, at the centre of deteriorating ties between Moscow and Europe over the Ukraine conflict.
European countries were heavily reliant on the company for natural gas supplies but have since raced for other sources after Russia dispatched troops to Ukraine.
Speaking during an event celebrating the company's 30-year anniversary, Putin commended its "efficiency and sustainability".
"Despite -- frankly speaking -- unfair competition and direct attempts from the outside to hinder and restrain its development, Gazprom is moving forward and launching new projects," Putin told a group of Gazprom employees via video link.
