Ukraine Peace Talks
EU officials are currently deliberating the possibility of resuming Russian pipeline gas imports as a way to encourage Moscow to engage in peace talks with Ukraine, according to a report by the Financial Times.
Sources familiar with the matter revealed that some German and Hungarian officials, as well as others from unnamed European capitals, support the idea, viewing it as a potential strategy to lower rising energy costs within the European Union.
These officials argue that restarting gas supplies from Russia could serve as leverage, urging Moscow to negotiate with Ukraine and providing both sides with an incentive to implement and uphold a ceasefire.
One official reportedly stated that the proposal is being considered due to mounting pressure from major EU member states, particularly concerning the bloc’s soaring energy prices. Resuming gas imports from Russia would help alleviate some of the financial strain and stabilize energy costs in the short term.
However, this idea has sparked significant opposition from Eastern European countries, including some of Ukraine’s closest EU allies.
These nations, many of which have actively worked to reduce their dependence on Russian energy, have reacted strongly to the suggestion. One official described the idea as “madness,” expressing disbelief at the notion of even considering it.
The proposal comes at a time when Russia halted its pipeline gas deliveries to Europe via Ukraine on January 1, 2025, after Kyiv refused to renegotiate a transit agreement following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Prior to the cutoff, the pipeline carried about 50% of Russia’s pipeline gas exports, with Slovakia, Austria, Hungary, and Moldova being the primary recipients.
While the EU has banned most Russian pipeline gas and oil imports, it still imported a record 17.8 million tons of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Russia in 2024. The EU has committed to phasing out Russian fossil fuel imports by 2027, but it has yet to impose restrictions on Russian LNG or pipeline gas.
In response to the ongoing conflict, the EU is also reportedly considering new restrictions on Russian LNG imports, with the next sanctions package expected to be announced next month.
Despite the opposition, some EU members continue to weigh the potential benefits of resuming gas imports to address energy concerns while navigating the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding the war in Ukraine.
