Russian President Vladimir Putin is demanding payment in rubles for natural gas — or else. Germany is talking about gas rationing in case of a cutoff. Prices for the fuel used to heat homes, generate electricity and power industry are through the roof. There’s a lot of discussion around natural gas in Europe against the background of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine , to say the least. Here are key things to know: WHAT IS PUTIN PROPOSING? Putin has said importers of Russian gas must now pay in rubles. European leaders said no dice — the contracts say euros or dollars and one side can’t abruptly change that. Changing currency would normally follow extended negotiations, analysts say, with customers demanding something in return for being exposed to fluctuations that would come with paying in the less-stable ruble. Russia-Ukraine war War in Ukraine fuels fears among draft-age Russian youths Live updates […]