EU Weighs Restarting Russian Gas Imports

Resuming pipeline gas deliveries is reportedly under consideration as a potential element of a Ukrainian peace agreement.

The Financial Times reports that European Union officials are exploring the possibility of restarting Russian gas imports as part of a potential peace deal in Ukraine.

The EU’s reliance on Russian gas has been a contentious issue, particularly since the bloc intensified efforts to reduce its dependence on inexpensive Russian energy following the 2022 escalation of the Ukrainian conflict.

According to the FT, proponents of the proposal, including officials from Germany and Hungary, argue that restoring Russian gas imports could alleviate Europe’s energy price pressures and incentivize Moscow to participate in negotiations. They believe this would encourage adherence to a ceasefire.

”Some major member states are under pressure regarding energy prices, and this is one way to lower them,” an official told the FT.

However, the idea has reportedly angered some Brussels officials and diplomats from Eastern European countries, long-standing critics of Russia. Their concerns center on increasing Moscow’s export earnings and undermining efforts to lessen reliance on Russian energy.

Moscow has expressed skepticism regarding this reported plan. Igor Ananskikh, first deputy chairman of the State Duma Energy Committee, told Lenta.ru on Thursday that the EU is unlikely to resume Russian gas purchases in the near term.

Russia has repeatedly asserted its readiness to resume gas supplies to Europe and criticized the sanctions, claiming they harm the EU more than Moscow.

The EU has experienced a sharp decline in Russian gas imports due to Ukraine-related sanctions and the 2022 Nord Stream pipeline sabotage, a major conduit for Russian gas to the EU. On January 1, Ukraine halted Russian gas transit through its territory following the expiration of an agreement with Moscow. Previously, Russian gas constituted roughly 40% of the EU’s total supply.

The EU has instead boosted liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports from countries such as the United States and Norway, resulting in higher energy prices. Former US President Donald Trump previously urged Brussels to increase American LNG purchases, threatening tariffs otherwise.

High energy prices have significantly impacted the EU economy. Germany, a major economic force in the EU, saw its economy contract for a second consecutive year in 2024, according to official data.

Slovakia, among the countries affected by the halted gas transit through Ukraine, has accused Kyiv of compromising its energy security. Prime Minister Robert Fico has vowed to veto any EU aid to Ukraine if Russian gas transit isn’t restored.

“Ultimately, everyone wants lower energy costs,” a senior EU official told the FT.