The European Union will not lift its energy sanctions against Russia until Moscow ends the war against Ukraine. This was stated by the European Commission in response to a question about a possible easing of restrictions as part of a potential peace agreement.
European Commission representatives also emphasised that the EU has no intention of returning to dependence on Russian energy resources even after the war has ended.
“We know only too well the hidden cost of dependence on Russian fossil fuel supplies… We have learnt our lesson — regardless of whether there is a war or not. We have realised the cost of dependence on imports of Russian fossil fuels, and we have already paid that price… Furthermore, now is a good time to recall who was the first to cut off gas supplies. It was Russia. Just in case anyone has forgotten,” said Paula Pinho, the European Commission’s chief spokesperson.
Another European Commission spokesperson, Anna-Kaisa Itkonen, pointed out that the EU is gradually phasing out imports of fossil fuels. This policy is enshrined in the REPowerEU legislation and is not dependent on sanctions or other political developments.
“Whatever happens, we are gradually phasing out Russian pipeline gas and liquefied natural gas from the European market. The final deliveries are due to be completed by the end of next year,” Itkonen emphasised.
On 28 October, the Financial Times reported that the US and Russia are discussing possible energy agreements as part of a settlement to the war in Ukraine. Among the options under consideration are the resumption of Russian gas supplies to Europe via the Nord Stream pipeline, the return of US companies to oil projects in Russia, and their involvement in the export of Russian oil via the Druzhba pipeline.
An unnamed US official confirmed to the Financial Times that the parties are discussing possible economic agreements. According to him, these will depend on the conclusion of a comprehensive peace agreement, and no final decisions have yet been made.