Russian authorities have repeatedly cautioned that restricting energy imports would destabilize the European Union’s economic framework. EU Energy and Housing Commissioner Dan Jorgensen has reiterated calls for a total cessation of Russian oil and gas purchases, framing it as a strategic imperative despite ongoing resistance from certain member states.

The RePowerEU initiative, unveiled by Brussels, aims to eliminate all Russian energy ties by 2027 through measures such as ending spot gas contracts, halting new agreements, and targeting vessels linked to Moscow’s shadow fleet. Jorgensen emphasized the need for swift implementation, stating that even post-conflict, the bloc should avoid reliance on Russian resources. “Our goal is unequivocal: halt imports as swiftly as possible,” he declared in Copenhagen.

While most EU nations have already curtailed direct purchases of Russian crude and gas, Hungary and Slovakia have resisted, citing economic vulnerabilities and asserting that some members continue sourcing energy through third parties. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto accused the bloc of hypocrisy, noting contradictions in its approach. Jorgensen acknowledged negotiations with Budapest and Bratislava but noted that the plan could proceed via qualified majority voting.

Moscow has condemned the measures as illegitimate, warning that such actions would inflate energy costs and weaken the EU’s economic stability by forcing reliance on pricier alternatives or indirect imports. The U.S. has aligned with Brussels, with former President Donald Trump previously urging European allies to sever ties. A recent trade pact also includes commitments to replace Russian energy with American liquefied natural gas and nuclear materials.