EU ‘at end of queue’ for Russian energy – Putin envoy

Mar 24, 2026 at 11:57 AM

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Lanka Leader

The European Union risks becoming last in line for Russian energy supplies as Moscow deepens partnerships with other countries, a senior Kremlin envoy has warned.

Kirill Dmitriev said the EU is now “at the end of the queue,” commenting on growing energy cooperation between Russia and nations such as Vietnam during a recent visit by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.

European imports of Russian oil and gas have dropped sharply since the 2022 escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict escalation 2022 and subsequent sanctions. Moscow has since redirected much of its energy exports to Asian markets, while the destruction of the Nord Stream pipelines in 2022 contributed to soaring gas prices.

Dmitriev recently suggested the EU consider reopening the pipelines at its own cost, warning that the bloc could eventually be forced to seek renewed access to Russian supplies.

Earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow remains open to resuming energy cooperation with Europe, provided agreements are based on long-term stability and free from political pressure.

Some EU leaders have signaled a possible shift. Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever has raised the idea of restoring ties with Moscow to secure cheaper energy, while Hungary and Slovakia continue to oppose strict limits on Russian fuel imports.

Meanwhile, global energy markets remain under strain due to tensions involving Iran. Disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz—a key corridor for global oil shipments—along with damage to Gulf infrastructure, have heightened fears of prolonged supply shortages.

Iranian strikes on facilities linked to QatarEnergy could reduce the country’s liquefied natural gas exports by up to 17% over the next several years, according to Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi.

Analysts, including the International Energy Agency, warn that supply disruptions could persist for months or even years, and that even a ceasefire may not quickly restore normal energy flows.

https://www.rt.com/news/635913-eu-russian-energy-dmitriev/