STORY: Russian energy giant Gazprom is looking at options for halting gas supplies to so-called “unfriendly” countries.

That’s according to a report in Russia’s Kommersant newspaper.

It says Gazprom is evaluating the consequences of a complete stoppage.

The news comes after President Vladimir Putin said "unfriendly" nations would soon have to pay for gas in roubles.

That’s raised fears of an energy supply crunch in the EU, which depends on Russia for about 40% of its gas.

Thursday (March 31) is the deadline for Gazprom and Russia’s central bank to draw up plans for such payments.

However, a Kremlin spokesman said this week that customers would not have to make the switch that day.

Germany, Russia’s largest gas client, has said it will continue to pay in euros or dollars.

Moscow’s list of “unfriendly” countries covers those that have imposed sanctions.

However, some, including the U.S. and Norway, do not buy any Russian gas.

A German government spokesman said this week that Berlin had received assurances it could still pay in currencies other than the rouble.