Russia halts gas supplies to Ukraine

Ukraine says Russia has cut off all gas supplies to Kiev following a major escalation of dispute between the two nations. 

Ukrainian Energy Minister, Yuri Prodan, said gas supplies to Ukraine have been reduced to zero. Russia's state-owned gas giant, Gazprom said Ukraine had to pay up front for its gas supplies, after Kiev failed to settle its huge debt.

Gazprom had sought from Kiev one point nine billion dollars out of four point five billion dollars. The Russian firm said it would continue to supply gas to Europe.

BBC