Russia mounts pressure ahead of Ukraine I-Day; EU's gas supply to be cut again

• Russian gas deliveries to Europe through the Nord Stream pipeline will cease from August 31 to September 2. Russian energy giant Gazprom said that the shutdown was because the pipeline's only remaining compressor requires maintenance. The unscheduled maintenance work deepens an energy standoff between Russia and European Union and adds pressure to the region as it seeks to refuel for winter. The disclosure also comes at a time when gas flows to Europe has come down to 20%. European countries dependent on Russian gas as the country supplies nearly 40% of Europe’s total gas consumption. The announcement by the Russian company also came a day after Ukrainian President warned of a Russian offensive ahead of its 31st Independence Day.