The debate over European energy security has intensified as some European Union (EU) officials reportedly entertained the idea of reopening Russian gas pipelines to lower regional energy costs. However, this prospect has faced strong opposition from several EU member states, particularly those with historical tensions with Russia. Estonia, Lithuania, and Poland have voiced their concerns, warning that reliance on Russian gas could undermine efforts to end the conflict in Ukraine and jeopardize regional stability.
Estonia, a NATO member sharing a 294-kilometer border with Russia, has been vocal in its disapproval. Kadri Elias-Hindoalla, Estonia's director of foreign affairs' sanctions and strategic goods department, firmly rejected the notion of reopening Russian gas pipelines. She emphasized that "going back is not a good solution in any way." Estonia aligns itself with Lithuania, Poland, and other allies in urging the EU to resist returning to Russian energy dependence.
Lithuania, having experienced Soviet occupation until 1990, remains particularly sensitive to Russian influence. Lithuanian authorities insist that any resolution to the conflict in Ukraine must involve Kyiv fully. Former Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis described the idea of seeking peace through Russian gas reliance as "demonstrably one of the worst ideas in the history of the world." His sentiments echo across a coalition of nations that prioritize Ukrainian sovereignty and regional security over short-term economic gains.
Poland, a steadfast ally of Ukraine, has similarly urged EU countries to avoid reopening Russian gas flows. Polish President Andrzej Duda warned EU members of potential repercussions from such a move, stating that they would likely bear the brunt of any supply shift. The EU's commitment to weakening Russia's military and industrial capabilities through sanctions remains unchanged. The 15th package of sanctions against Russia, adopted late last year, underscores this determination.
The cessation of Russian gas exports to Europe via Ukraine at the start of 2025 marked a pivotal moment. The halt ended Moscow's decades-long control over the region's energy markets. The Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline, connecting Russia and northern Germany via the Baltic Sea, has been a focal point of contention. Discussions surrounding its potential reopening continue to stir debates about Europe's energy future.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy cautioned against excluding Kyiv from U.S.-Russia discussions on ending the invasion. He emphasized the "very dangerous" implications of sidelining Ukraine in peace talks. Meanwhile, Lithuania's President Gitanas Nausėda highlighted his country's vulnerability to broader conflict due to its geographical position.
Despite these concerns, EU officials maintain a clear stance on the issue. Paula Pinho, an EU spokesperson, reiterated that the EU plans to gradually phase out Russian gas. She clarified that "whenever we have such talks, when that moment comes, it will be with Ukraine and we do not confirm any links reported in the article … about any links between the transit of gas through Ukraine and any peace talks."
The European Commission has reinforced its commitment to energy independence by setting a goal to phase out Russian fossil fuel imports by 2027. This objective aligns with broader efforts to reduce the EU's reliance on external energy sources and bolster regional stability.