The European Union has officially reaffirmed its firm stance on halting the import of Russian energy resources, particularly gas and oil
In recent days, active discussions have taken place in Brussels and other European capitals regarding further steps in energy policy amid hybrid warfare and economic pressure from Russia. According to EU Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson, the European Union will not reverse its course on importing Russian gas and oil – from now on, «not a single molecule» of these resources will appear on EU markets. This unanimous decision was announced before the informal meeting of energy ministers from member states in Warsaw, where government representatives gathered to discuss global energy security and immediate actions in that direction. In a statement to journalists, Commissioner Jørgensen emphasized: “We are determined to end all contact with Russian energy, as we will not allow it to be used as a tool of blackmail and political pressure.” He added that this is why the EU will intensify efforts to reduce dependence on Russian supplies, as it is a matter of national security and aligned with Ukraine’s fight against Russian aggression. Responding to questions about potential contacts between the US and Russia, as well as the likelihood of restoring Russian gas imports, Jørgensen underscored that, presently and in the future, the European Union does not plan to resume importing any molecule of Russian energy. “We are sending a clear signal – energy independence is our top priority,” he stressed. According to him, “soon and forever,” the EU will renounce Russian supplies and will work toward fully ending Russian gas imports by 2027, while gradually reducing Russian oil imports. It should be noted that on Tuesday, May 6, the European Commission published a strategic plan envisioning a complete transition to alternative energy sources and a reduction in dependence on Russian resources. According to the new roadmap, EU countries are to cease importing Russian gas by the end of 2027 and work on decreasing Russian oil supplies. However, some countries, such as Hungary and Slovakia, still remain influenced by traditional pipeline deliveries of these resources. The main ally in this effort – Moscow – has long attempted to maintain its energy presence in the European market, but governments in Central Europe have weighed the strategic risks and the desire for energy independence. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico responded quite categorically: he stated that the current European Commission roadmap is unacceptable for his government. He emphasized that such documents and proposals of the Copenhagen Declaration could threaten the stability and financial capabilities of energy systems in the region. Meanwhile, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán expressed his dissatisfaction. In a media interview, he noted that the measures proposed by European leaders could lead to an economic catastrophe and significantly burden households in Central Europe. “Ursula von der Leyen’s proposals will lead to bankruptcy, and we must be prepared for difficulties,” he stressed. Thus, the battle for energy independence in Europe continues to unfold with tension. Although many countries are already taking steps toward diversification of supplies and alternative sources, the preservation and transit of Russian resources in the region remain a subject of ongoing discussions and disagreements. For insights from Poland’s experience—having already traversed this path—and about its persistent program of moving away from Russian gas, see our upcoming publication.