Poland's Push to Fast-Track EU Independence from Russian Energy

In a bold move to expedite energy independence, Poland's Energy Minister Milosz Motyka has urged European Union nations to cease imports of Russian energy by the end of 2026. Poland is committed to assisting countries still reliant on such imports in achieving this goal sooner.

The Druzhba pipeline still supplies Russian oil to Hungary and Slovakia despite the EU's broader move towards cutting ties with Moscow post the 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed plans to accelerate the reduction of Russian fossil imports following discussions with U.S. leaders.

Poland insists on abolishing Russian oil imports earlier due to recent provocations, like a drone breach on Polish soil. Additionally, increased U.S. liquefied natural gas imports could enable European nations to transition away from Russian energy, as evidenced by Poland's recent gas shipments to Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies.)