Von der Leyen: Resuming Russian gas imports would be a historic mistake — we won’t allow it
Ursula von der Leyen (Photo: EC - Audiovisual Service)

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has endorsed a new roadmap for the complete phase-out of Russian energy, stressing that the EU will not allow a return to dependence on the aggressor.

"Some are still saying that we should re-open the tap of Russian gas and oil. This would be a mistake of historic proportions. And we will not let it happen," she said in the European Parliament on Wednesday.

Read also
The US and Russia are secretly discussing the launch of Nord Stream 2: what is known

Von der Leyen said Russia has repeatedly proved its unreliability as a supplier.

"Putin has already cut gas flows to Europe in 2006, 2009, 2014, 2021, and throughout the war. How many times before they learn the lesson," said the European Commission President.

She acknowledged that Europe has recently seen a slight increase in energy imports from Russia, but predicted that it would be temporary.

"Dependency on Russia is not only bad for our security, but also for our economy. Our energy prices cannot be dictated by a hostile neighbour. We need a final push to phase out Russian fossil fuels," von der Leyen said.

  • As of 2024, ten EU member states still import Russian natural gas, while three continue to import Russian oil.
  • The European Commission aims to end all such imports by the end of 2027.
Ursula von der Leyen