The European Union is looking to phase out Russian fossil fuels more quickly as part of new sanctions against Moscow, according to European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen. This comes after pressure from U. S. President Donald Trump to stop buying Russian oil as a response to Russia’s war in Ukraine. EU officials are in Washington discussing coordination on these sanctions.
Von der Leyen stated that the upcoming 19th package of Russia sanctions will focus on phasing out Russian fossil fuels faster, including actions against a “shadow fleet” and third countries. The EU has already banned imports of seaborne crude oil from Russia, which represents over 90% of its oil imports, and is working on plans to completely eliminate Russian oil and gas by January 1, 2028.
However, Hungary and Slovakia oppose measures on gas imports, fearing increased energy prices. The EU needs unanimous agreement for sanctions, while other legal proposals can pass with a reinforced majority. Russian fuel revenues are crucial for funding its war in Ukraine.
With information from Reuters