Although it has always shown strong support for Kiev in the conflict with Moscow, the EU has actually spent more money on purchasing Russian gas in 2024 than the total aid for Ukraine.
The information confirmed by EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen in an interview with La Repubblica (Italy) is sparking controversy over the consistency of the bloc's foreign and energy policies.
In 2024, we spent more money on gas from Russia than the total value of support for Ukraine. That is a paradox, Dan Jorgensen said of the situation the EU is facing.
The statement clarified a reality: Despite repeated economic sanctions and political statements against Russia, money from Europe continues to flow to Moscow through energy imports, especially gas.
Member Jorgensen reaffirmed the European Commission's goal of completely ending Russian gas purchases by 2027, as part of the energy transition strategy and ensuring regional security. The road ahead will focus on developing renewable energy and nuclear, he said, to avoid falling into a new dependence.
We must be careful not to repeat old mistakes - moving from one dependence to another. Therefore, the EU is diversifying its supply. Currently, Norway is our largest gas supplier, followed by the US, he added.
However, Mr. Jorgensen also admitted that imports from the US are temporary and cannot be extended, because the EU's long-term goal is complete independence in energy by boosting investment in clean and sustainable sources.
Specific data on how much the EU will spend on Russian gas in 2024 has not been officially released, but experts estimate that this figure could reach tens of billions of euros, while total financial and military aid to Kiev is still facing many budget problems and consensus among member countries.
The European Commission has previously proposed a ban on all imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and gas via pipeline from Russia before the end of 2027. This ban will be gradually implemented from January 1, 2026.
