Ron Ness talks implications of Ukraine-Russia tensions on North Dakota

Photo by: WDAY Radio Staff
Photo by: WDAY Radio Staff

(Bismarck, ND) -- The President of North Dakota's Petroleum Council not mincing words on what the current invasion of Ukraine on Russia will mean for you here in North Dakota.

"We've gone from a country that was energy dominant in the world 15 months ago, to just now being happy to have energy in my opinion," said Ness while speaking with The Flag's What's on Your Mind Program.

Ness says the situation will "exasperate the problems" coming out of COVID-19, and that it's time for action, but to this point he has not seen anything from the Biden Administration that shows they support American energy production or growth.

"They probably backed off on a few really bad ideas already, and have proven they are anti-fuel and anti-energy," said Ness. "I think it's time for Americans to stand up now and get mad at this. I've been saying it for a long time."

This all comes as prices at the pump continue to rise, be it a combination of the invasion and the pandemic. Ness does say however those actually selling oil and gas aren't to concerned right now about the price per barrell shooting up near the $100 mark. "I don't think it makes one bit of difference today to a North Dakota gas distributor. You're tapping every well you can already."

The current average for a gallon of gas in Fargo is currently $3.35 per gallon.