The European Union spent significantly more on Russian fossil fuel imports in 2024 than it gave to Ukraine in military and financial support, according to new research by the Center for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA). First reported by Euromaidan Press, the analysis reveals the EU paid around €46 billion for Russian energy, while Ukraine received just under €39 billion in assistance.
The data highlights a sharp contrast between the EU’s public stance against Russia and its ongoing energy purchases. Despite a wide range of sanctions and pledges to reduce reliance on Russian oil and gas, most of the EU’s energy payments went toward liquefied natural gas (LNG) and pipeline gas, the report said.
This spending imbalance has drawn fresh attention to the EU’s energy policy. Analysts point out that while pipeline gas flows from Russia have fallen since the war began, LNG shipments—particularly to France, Spain, and Belgium—have increased. CREA notes that this undercuts the EU’s stated goal of cutting energy ties with Moscow.
The report comes amid renewed debate in the G7 over the current $60-per-barrel price cap on Russian crude. On Thursday, EU officials—backed by the UK—proposed lowering the cap to $50 or even $30 to curb Russian oil revenues. Ukraine has long called for a $30 cap, arguing that the current limit is too lenient.
The UK has officially supported the move. According to Bloomberg, British officials believe the cap has become ineffective due to Russia’s use of shadow tanker fleets and other workarounds.
The findings underscore the EU’s difficult balancing act between economic needs, energy security, and support for Ukraine as the war continues.
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