Gazprom is offering 1.9 billion euros for the Greek gas company DEPA, reports the Greek publication Imerisia . Thus, the Russian state corporation, which already meets 80% of Greece’s gas needs, claims to become an absolute monopolist in this market, the newspaper notes.

Gazprom announced its desire to acquire DEPA back in March last year.

In addition to Gazprom, there are 4 more companies vying for the purchase of DEPA, including two local holdings, the Russian Negusneft, part of the Sintez group, and the Azerbaijani Socar. At the same time, the price declared by Gazprom is significantly higher than that of its competitors, which makes it the most likely contender for the ownership of the Greek enterprise: Greek and European creditors are interested in selling the company at the highest possible price.

The prospect of selling DEPA to Gazprom seriously worries Washington, the Greek publication notes. According to the newspaper, US authorities are concerned that in this case the country could become an “energy hostage” and advise the Greek government to try to avoid such a risk when choosing an investor.

Two-thirds of DEPA shares are owned by the state, the remaining share is owned by Hellenic Petroleum. The company supplies natural gas, mainly to large consumers within the country. In addition, it has a significant stake in companies that sell gas to small and medium-sized businesses.

In addition, the company owns a major operator of the Greek gas transmission network, DESFA. This company is also up for sale, but may be sold separately from DEPA. According to Imerisia, Gazprom does not lay claim to it.

Gazprom offers 1.9 billion euros for the Greek company DEPA