The European Union has reiterated its stance against purchasing Russian gas, emphasizing that it will not allow Russia to leverage energy as a tool of coercion. The share of Russian gas in the EU’s energy mix has decreased significantly, from 45% to an estimated 10%, with plans to eliminate it entirely.
This declaration was made by EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen during a press briefing following an informal meeting of EU energy ministers on March 31. Jørgensen stated, “We must never repeat the mistakes of the past by allowing Putin to use energy as a weapon against us and to blackmail EU member states.”
He further noted that it would be unacceptable for the EU to continue purchasing energy that indirectly finances Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine. The EU is actively engaged in replacing Russian gas, with Norway emerging as the primary supplier, followed by the United States. Additional sources include Azerbaijan, Algeria, and Canada.
Jørgensen also mentioned that the EU is exploring closer cooperation with smaller producers in the global market, aiming to diversify its energy supply and enhance energy security.
The European Union is committed to phasing out Russian gas imports entirely, reducing its share from 45% to an estimated 10%. This move is part of a broader strategy to prevent Russia from using energy as a weapon amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.