After the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, European energy prices soared. At a critical moment, Russia announced an even more shocking decision!
On March 4th, Putin made a bombshell statement during an interview. He said that since the EU would eventually completely ban Russian gas, rather than waiting for you to act, Russia would proactively "cut off the gas". Moreover, this is not simply about stopping supply. Russia clearly stated that it would completely shift the energy share originally supplied to Europe towards emerging markets.
The Strait of Hormuz, a global energy artery, was cut off, and oil and gas from the Middle East could not get out, causing international oil and natural gas prices to surge immediately. The EU was still discussing whether to resume importing Russian pipeline gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG), but Russia came up with this statement, which further exacerbated the already fragile European energy market.
In recent years, Europe has been trying to "de-Russify" itself, aiming to reduce its dependence on Russian energy. However, the reality is harsh. Until 2025, some European countries still had to indirectly purchase Russian gas through third parties during extreme weather. Now, the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz has exposed the fragility of Europe's alternative sources — the instability in the Middle East, the large capacity of US LNG, but limited transportation costs and infrastructure. At this critical moment, Putin's statement effectively cut off Europe's last "illusion." This is not a bargaining chip; it's a complete severance.
Previously, Russia still considered Europe as a major customer, even reserving some leeway despite sanctions. But now, with the growth of demand in Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America, Russia found that leaving the European market not only does not lead to death, but also allows it to sell at higher prices and settle more safely.
Europe is facing import inflation caused by the strait crisis and urgently needs a stable gas source for winter or to maintain industrial operations. At this time, when Russia says, "I won't sell anymore, I'll sell to others," it's like closing the water tap in Europe's most desperate moment and pouring the water directly to the neighbor. Tao Ge thinks this is a naked humiliation. At the time when Europe needed Russian energy the most, it gave Europe a loud slap.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1858788224030732/
Statement: The article represents the views of the author alone.