EU seeks U.S. support to end Russian Oil
Copenhagen
The European Union has said it would welcome U.S. President Donald Trump’s backing for its plan to halt imports of Russian oil and gas by January 1, 2028, in a bid to sever decades-old energy ties with Moscow. The move comes as Russia’s energy revenues continue to fund its war in Ukraine.
EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen told Reuters that while Washington has not pressured Brussels to speed up the process, U.S. support would strengthen Europe’s stance. “Putin has weaponised energy against us, blackmailed member states, and we are indirectly financing his war. Stopping this is our main objective,” he said.
The United States has already urged Europe to stop Russian oil purchases and has imposed punitive tariffs on India for continuing imports. Meanwhile, Hungary and Slovakia oppose the EU’s phase-out, citing the risk of surging energy prices. Jorgensen confirmed talks are underway with both nations but noted the proposals require only a reinforced majority, not unanimity, meaning the plan could proceed without them.
Russian gas accounted for around 45% of EU demand before the 2022 invasion of Ukraine but is projected to fall to 13% this year. Energy ministers are expected to vote on the proposals next month. Jorgensen is also set to meet U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright in Brussels next week to discuss the EU’s pledge to buy $250 billion annually in American energy supplies under the U.S.-EU trade deal. Analysts, however, have warned the target may be unrealistic given market constraints.