The European Union is considering resuming purchases of Russian gas, which could become part of a peace plan between Russia and Ukraine, Financial Times reports, citing informed sources.
Some EU countries, including Germany and Hungary, support this move, believing it could help lower high energy prices and encourage Moscow to engage in negotiations to end the conflict. Additionally, they argue that it would ensure Europe’s energy stability.
Germany, which previously relied heavily on Russian gas, is facing economic difficulties due to rising energy prices, affecting the economies of neighboring countries, particularly the Czech Republic.
Despite the EU’s goal to phase out Russian fossil fuel imports by 2027, several countries insist on resuming supplies. Danish EU Commissioner Dan Jørgensen is expected to present a plan for achieving Europe’s energy independence by March.
However, the proposal from Germany and Hungary is causing significant divisions within the EU. The strongest opposition is expected from Eastern European and Baltic countries, which support Ukraine and fear increased Russian influence. The potential resumption of Russian gas purchases could also be hindered by newly elected U.S. President Donald Trump, who advocates for increasing American liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports to Europe.
Another point of interest is the decision of the Danish Energy Agency to approve maintenance work on Nord Stream 2. While the official reason cited is environmental concerns, repairing the pipeline could create conditions for the future resumption of Russian gas supplies to Europe.
