KYIV, March 23 – If the construction of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline is not completed by the end of 2019, Russia will be forced to negotiate with Ukraine on a new gas transit contract, Deputy Foreign Minister of Ukraine for European Integration Olena Zerkal said.

"Whether we have strong positions, it will also depend on whether Nord Stream 2 will be until the end of 2019. If it isn't built, Russia will have to negotiate with us, taking into account our legislation," she said on the air of the television channel 'Direct' on Wednesday.