Brussels, June 24, 2022 (AFP) – This Thursday (23), in Brussels, the leaders of the European Union (EU) countries decided to join forces to reduce their energy dependence on Russia, which has begun to cut gas supplies. The measure raises fears of a “hard winter”.
On the second day of meetings, this Friday (24), European leaders discussed the effects of the energy crisis and its economic impact on the bloc.
“We have reviewed all national contingency plans to ensure everyone is prepared for further disruption,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said at a press conference.
He added that the bloc countries are “working on a contingency plan to reduce energy demand” and that it will be presented in July.
The risk of gas shortages has become even clearer this winter since the Russian energy company Gazprom drastically reduced its deliveries to EU countries. The scenario is particularly serious for Germany, which is heavily dependent on Russian gas supplies.
“We will face very turbulent times and this winter will probably be very difficult,” said Belgian Prime Minister Alexander de Croo.
European leaders urged officials from EU institutions to step up their efforts to “coordinate more closely national energy policies,” according to the summit’s results.
Von der Leyen reminded that Europe’s strategy to face this scenario is based on energy conservation, development of renewable energies and diversification of gas and oil suppliers.
At the summit, leaders asked the European Commission to analyze in depth the feasibility of “temporary restrictions on energy import tariffs”.
“We are working on different models, including how the market works,” von der Leyen said, adding that he is expected to present “options” after the summer.
source: Noticias
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