In terms of gas imports, the EU relies more on Russia than on the United States.
Despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, EU nations are once again purchasing more gas from Russia than from the USA. This revelation comes from Brussels-based consultancy Bruegel, who's data shows that in the April-June quarter, EU countries imported approximately 12.7 billion cubic meters from Russia and 12.3 billion from the USA. Even though Russia's supply slightly decreased compared to the first quarter of 2024, its decline wasn't as significant as that of the USA's. Norway remains the largest gas supplier to the EU, with 23.9 billion cubic meters in the second quarter.
Before Russia's invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, it held this top position, but many EU countries reduced their imports from Russia. As per the German Federal Statistical Office, Germany is no longer buying any gas from Russia. Across the EU, Russia has moved up to the second spot on the list of suppliers, just above the USA, but the specific countries receiving gas weren't disclosed in the data.
CDU's foreign policy spokesperson, Norbert Röttgen, advocated for a complete EU-wide ban on Russian gas imports with the German broadcaster "World". He argued that with billions being spent to support Ukraine, it's irrational and unconvincing to continue sending funds into Putin's war chest.
FDP's energy expert, Michael Kruse, supports a surcharge on the price of Russian import gas to fund Ukraine's aid and weapon deliveries. According to him, this way, Putin would be funding his resistance against the barbaric attacks himself.
- Despite advocating for a ban on Russian gas imports, some EU nations continue to rely heavily on Russia for their energy needs, with the economy significantly impacted by the shift in gas suppliers.
- The ongoing dependence on Russian gas imports raises questions about the EU's long-term energy strategy and its ability to fully sever ties with Russia in response to its actions in Ukraine.
