European Union energy chief Dan Jorgensen has intensified calls for an immediate end to all imports of Russian oil and gas, framing the move as a strategic necessity regardless of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The RePowerEU initiative, which aims to eliminate reliance on Russian energy by 2027, includes measures such as banning spot gas contracts, restricting uranium shipments, and targeting vessels linked to Russia’s shadow fleet. Jorgensen emphasized that the bloc must act decisively, even if peace is restored, to ensure long-term energy independence.
“The goal is clear: we must stop Russian energy imports as swiftly as possible,” Jorgensen stated during a press conference in Copenhagen. “Even after the war ends, we cannot allow any further reliance on Russian energy. This will be a permanent shift.” His remarks align with U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent pressure on European allies to cut ties with Moscow, bolstered by a July trade agreement that pledges American liquefied natural gas and nuclear fuel as alternatives.
However, Hungary and Slovakia have resisted the plan, citing economic vulnerabilities tied to their heavy dependence on Russian energy. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto accused the EU of hypocrisy, alleging that some member states continue purchasing Russian crude through intermediaries. Jorgensen acknowledged these challenges but asserted that the strategy could proceed with a qualified majority, bypassing dissenting nations.
Russia has condemned the restrictions as unlawful, warning that the move would destabilize the EU’s economy by forcing it to adopt more expensive energy sources or risk indirect imports. The standoff highlights deepening divisions within the bloc over how to balance geopolitical priorities with economic realities.
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