EU rules out importing a single molecule of gas from Russia
The latest development is that European Union officials have firmly rejected any relaxation or resumption of bans on Russian energy imports, with Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen stating the bloc will not import even "one molecule" despite pressure to offset surging prices driven by conflicts in both Iran and Russia.
Key Points
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1The EU has officially ruled out importing any future gas from Russia following a suggestion by Belgium's prime minister.
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2EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen stated there is no intention of relaxing sanctions to address rising global energy prices or conflicts in regions like Iran and Ukraine.
Developments
Perspectives
The EU has firmly ruled out importing even a single molecule of gas from Russia.
— [Mar 16, 21:40] EuractivGermany joined Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen in rejecting the suggestion by Belgium's prime minister to resume energy imports after controversial proposals were made regarding easing restrictions on Russian fuel sources during an ongoing crisis involving Iran and rising prices.
— [Mar 16, 21:40] Euractiv'We've decided that we do not want to re-import any future of the European Union,' Dan Jørgensen stated in response to pressure from various stakeholders including Belgium's government regarding potential relaxation on Russian energy imports.
— [Mar 16, 21:40] Euractiv'We've decided that we do not want re-import any future of the European Union,' Dan Jørgensen stated in response to pressure from various stakeholders including Belgium's government regarding potential relaxation on Russian energy imports.
— [Mar 16, 21:40] EuractivEU Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen and German officials have firmly rejected Belgium's suggestion of resuming Russian gas imports as "one molecule," citing concerns over financing Russia's war in Ukraine rather than addressing current energy price shocks. While acknowledging the impact on Europe, leaders emphasized that returning to dependence would undermine EU credibility during a crisis without offering structural solutions for long-term security.
EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen stated that Brussels will not re-engage with Russia or import any of its energy due to concerns over financing Putin's war. Despite pressure from some member states, the EU remains determined on this policy and plans a similar ban on Russian oil next month without considering structural market reforms as an alternative for rising prices.