OREANDA-NEWS Austrian Energy Minister Leonore Gewessler said that the country is in a very tense situation regarding gas reserves, RIA Novosti reported citing the Puls 24 TV channel. According to the minister, Austria intends to fill gas storage facilities for the winter to 80%. She noted that at present they are filled only by 44.7%.

Gewessler also said that "Russia is using energy supplies as a weapon. Therefore, Austria needs, first of all, to stockpile as much gas as possible, secondly, to come to maximum diversification, and thirdly, to become independent.

Earlier, Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer said that Israel could supply gas to the country from 2023. June 17, Gewessler said the country is prepared for all scenarios in the import of fuel, including the complete cessation of gas supplies from Russia. According to the minister, the announcement on the part of Russia to reduce gas supplies leads to a significant increase in the price and uncertainty across Europe.