Vladimir Putin Signals Possible Halt to Russian Gas Supplies to Europe Amid EU Oil Ban Proposal
Russia Weighs Strategic Shift in Energy Exports
Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated that Russia could immediately stop supplying gas to European markets and redirect its energy exports to alternative destinations that he described as more promising.Speaking to Russian state TV reporter Pavel Zarubin on Wednesday, Putin said new markets are emerging and could offer better opportunities for Russia. He suggested that shifting focus away from Europe might be more profitable for the country.
"And now, other markets are opening up. And perhaps it would be more profitable for us to stop supplying the European market right now. To move into those markets that are opening up and establish ourselves there," Putin said.
He clarified that no formal decision has been made yet, describing his remarks as preliminary thinking. Putin added that he would instruct the Russian government to evaluate the issue in coordination with energy companies.
European Commission to Propose Permanent Ban on Russian Oil
The comments come as the European Commission prepares to submit a legal proposal to permanently ban Russian oil imports on April 15. According to European Union officials and a document seen by Reuters, the proposal will be presented three days after Hungary’s parliamentary elections.The move signals continued efforts by the European Union to further reduce its reliance on Russian energy supplies.
Russian Gas Still Flows to Select European Markets
Although Russian fuel shipments to Europe have declined since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, pipeline gas deliveries continue to a limited number of European countries. Russia currently supplies gas to Serbia, Hungary, and Slovakia through pipeline networks.In addition, the country exports liquefied natural gas from the Novatek-led Yamal LNG plant.
Despite the reduction in volumes, Russian gas still accounts for an estimated 13 percent of European Union imports in 2025. According to the Council of the EU, these imports are valued at more than €15 billion annually.
Putin Reaffirms Russia’s Position as Reliable Energy Supplier
Putin reiterated that Russia has historically been a dependable energy supplier. He stated that Moscow will continue to cooperate with partners it considers reliable, specifically naming Slovakia and Hungary.His remarks highlight the evolving landscape of global energy markets as geopolitical tensions continue to reshape trade flows between Russia and Europe.
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