OREANDA-NEWS. German Vice Chancellor, Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection Robert Habeck said that Germany would not pay for natural gas supplies in Russian rubles and announced the introduction of an emergency plan in case Russia cuts off energy supplies, Reuters reports.

“We will not accept the breach of private supply contracts. I am glad that companies are assessing the situation in the same way,” Habek said.

He noted that his department received support from German firms.

“There were a number of statements from Russia that if this [payment for energy resources in rubles] does not happen, then supplies will be stopped. To prepare for such a situation, this morning I announced the first level of warning under the gas directive,” Habek said, noting that he meant “monitoring the situation.”

Habeck pointed out that Germany's gas storage facilities are currently 25% full, which he says ensures the security of Germany's energy supply.

Earlier, State Duma speaker Volodin proposed expanding "ruble" exports to oil, coal and food.