The Russian energy company Gazprom has issued a warning to Finland concerning the significant drop in the filling level of the Inčukalns underground gas storage facility in Latvia, which now stands below 25%. This situation raises concerns about the reliability of gas supply not only for Latvia but also for Finland, as both regions are interconnected through the Balticconnector gas pipeline. The Inčukalns facility serves as the sole underground gas storage for the Baltic countries, acting as a buffer for gas markets in the area.

Gazprom pointed out that the gas stockpiles intended for the winter have already been depleted, and current consumption is being met using reserves from previous years. According to Gazprom, supported by data from Gas Infrastructure Europe and the Latvian gas network company Conexus Baltic Grid, these dwindling supplies could challenge the energy security of both Finland and the Baltic states. As winter approaches, the potential for shortages in gas supply could affect economic activities and residential heating in the regions that rely on this energy source.

Following the suspension of gas deliveries to Finland in May 2022 due to Finland's refusal to pay in rubles, Gazprom's influence in the Baltic gas market has diminished. The company has also ceased gas supplies to Latvia and does not hold stakes in the country's gas companies. Although Gazprom no longer acts as a direct supplier in the Baltic gas market, the repercussions of its actions and the current storage situation could still lead to energy instability, necessitating vigilance from both Finnish and Baltic authorities as they prepare for the winter months.