EU Commissioner seeks permanent Russian energy import cut by 2027

Commissioner for Energy and Housing Dan Jorgensen has urged the European Union to permanently cut off all Russian energy imports. While most EU countries have already halted direct imports of Russian crude and gas in response to sanctions over the Ukraine conflict, the EU aims to fully phase out Russian energy by the end of 2027 under its RePowerEU Roadmap. The plan calls for ending spot‑gas contracts, suspending new deals, limiting uranium imports, and targeting Russian oil tankers that allegedly bypass sanctions.

Jorgensen stressed the need for a clear framework that will be upheld even after the Ukraine war ends. He said the EU’s objective is to stop importing Russian energy as quickly as possible and to avoid resuming imports after any peace agreement is reached. The United States has backed the EU’s approach; President Donald Trump urged European allies to halt Russian energy imports, and the July trade deal between Washington and Brussels pledged to replace Russian oil and gas with American LNG and nuclear fuel.

However, some EU members—particularly Hungary and Slovakia, which rely heavily on Russian supplies—have opposed the phase‑out, citing security concerns and the risk of price increases. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjártó accused the EU of “hypocrisy” for calling for a phase‑out while some members continue to buy Russian crude through intermediaries. Jorgensen is in talks with Hungary and Slovakia but noted that the plan can be approved without their support, as it requires only a qualified majority.

Moscow has warned that abandoning Russian energy will raise prices and weaken the EU’s economy, forcing the bloc to rely on costlier alternatives or indirect Russian imports. The EU’s phase‑out of Russian energy is part of a broader effort to reduce dependence on Russian fossil fuels and enhance energy security. The European Commission will need to negotiate with member states to finalize the plan, which is expected to have significant implications for the EU’s energy market and economy.