The EU wants to end all Russian gas imports. Moscow’s friends in the bloc say it’s a ‘serious mistake’

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban held a joint press conference at the Kremlin on July 5, 2024. They discussed concerns about the European Commission’s plan to end all Russian gas and energy imports by 2027, labeling it as “economic suicide” and a threat to the region’s energy security and economy.

The European Commission’s announcement to phase out Russian gas, nuclear energy, and LNG imports by the end of 2027 was in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Despite efforts to reduce gas flows, almost 19% of the EU’s gas and LNG imports still came from Russia in 2024. This move has sparked criticism from Eastern European nations, particularly Slovakia and Hungary, who rely on cheaper energy supplies from Russia and fear higher energy prices for consumers.

Both Slovakia and Hungary have expressed opposition to the EU’s plans, with Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Sijjártó calling the proposals “politically motivated” and a “serious mistake.” The EU aims to gradually phase out all Russian energy imports by 2027, with legislative proposals expected to be presented in June for approval.

The Commission emphasized the need for a coordinated approach among member states to diversify energy sources and infrastructure. It remains uncertain how Slovakia and Hungary will respond to the request to prepare national plans for phasing out Russian energy imports. The EU’s move is seen as a step towards reducing dependence on Russia and strengthening energy independence in the region.