Reuters: Ukraine, Russia look to avert New Year gas row

Ukraine and Russia will renew gas talks on Jan. 15, Russia's Gazprom said on Monday, as they strive to avert a standoff over pricing, which in the past has led to supply cuts and gas shortages in Europe during New Year holidays.

Both countries have pledged to ensure steady gas flows to the Europe Union, which relies on Russia for one quarter of its gas supplies, despite differences over pricing and the ownership of Ukraine's strategic gas pipeline system.  MORE