**EU Sets Roadmap to End Russian Fossil Fuel Imports by 2027**
The European Union is taking a crucial step towards reducing its dependence on Russia’s fossil fuels. On April 24, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that the EU will unveil a roadmap in May to phase out all Russian fossil fuel imports by 2027.
This move comes as a response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent cutting off of gas supplies to Europe. Von der Leyen emphasized that the roadmap will lay out concrete steps to eliminate the bloc’s reliance on energy supplies from Russia, which had previously supplied 45% of the EU’s gas, half of its coal, and nearly a third of its oil.
The EU had already committed to ending Russian fossil fuel imports by 2027, but the process has faced political and logistical challenges. The bloc remains dependent on Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG), which made up 19% of EU gas and LNG supplies in 2024. However, restrictions on LNG are unlikely to be part of the EU’s upcoming sanctions package.
**A Compromise is Needed**
Von der Leyen stressed that finding a compromise will be crucial in achieving this goal. “De facto this peace should come down to the fact that neither side will be able to say it won this war,” she said, referring to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
The EU’s push for a peace deal is expected to be discussed during a meeting between US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on April 25. The talks follow a devastating missile and drone attack by Russia on Kyiv on April 24, which killed at least 12 people and injured 90.
**International Response**
The international community is also weighing in on the situation. US President Donald Trump commented on the strike, saying, “I am not happy with the Russian strikes on Kyiv. Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, Stop!”
France’s President Emmanuel Macron also emphasized that his country will continue to defend Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Ukrainian officials have confirmed that Russia has been holding back information about the circumstances surrounding the death of a Ukrainian national, which occurred in October 2024.
**A Complex Situation**
The situation is complex, with various stakeholders having different opinions on how to proceed. US Vice President JD Vance has not commented directly on the strike, while Romanian Prime Minister Nicolae Ciucă expressed support for Ukraine’s efforts to find a peace deal.
In conclusion, the EU’s move to end Russian fossil fuel imports by 2027 is a significant step towards reducing its dependence on Russia’s energy supplies. As the international community continues to navigate this complex situation, it remains to be seen how the various stakeholders will work together to achieve a peaceful resolution.
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