The era of Russian fossil fuels is coming to an end. The EU plans to ban gas imports from Russia by 2027.
During a debate in the European Parliament on the war in Ukraine, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced firm actions aimed at ending the import of Russian gas to the European Union—both via pipelines and as liquefied natural gas (LNG)—by the end of 2027 at the latest.
“The era of Russian fossil fuels in Europe is coming to an end,” von der Leyen emphasized, adding that it is crucial to weaken Russia’s ability to wage war by cutting off sources of funding from energy resource exports.
End of Russian gas in Europe
The European Commission President reminded that Russia has repeatedly used gas as a political tool, cutting supplies to Europe in 2006, 2009, 2014, 2021, and after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
“Some still argue that the EU should reopen the gas tap to Russia. That would be a historical mistake. Getting rid of Russian gas is not only necessary—it is possible and must be done,” she stressed.
The European Commission announced that it would introduce a ban on new spot and long-term gas import contracts from Russia by the end of this year. These contracts will be phased out by the end of 2027. Legislative details are expected to be presented in June.
Common position of the European Parliament
Polish MEPs from various political factions agreed with the direction taken by the European Commission, emphasizing the importance of Ukraine’s full sovereignty and the need to continue military and economic support.
“Peace cannot reward imperialism or legitimize conquest. The EU must act for security and use frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s reconstruction,” said Adam Bielan (PiS).
“There will be no free Europe without a free Ukraine. Peace cannot mean capitulation and surrendering land to the aggressor,” added Mirosława Nykiel (KO).
“We must rapidly rebuild the European defense industry to effectively deter Russia,” emphasized Krzysztof Hetman (PSL).
Energy security and Europe’s sovereignty
The debate in the European Parliament showed broad consensus around the need to end Europe’s dependency on Russian energy resources. This is not only a matter of security but also geopolitical independence and solidarity with Ukraine.
Source: biznesalert.pl