Lithuanian Energy Minister Warns Rising Energy Prices Could Revive Calls to Re-Import Russian Gas in Europe
Speaking in an interview with Rapporteur, Lithuanian Energy Minister Lukas Savickas said that as energy prices continue to rise across Europe, calls within EU member states for resuming purchases of Russian natural gas are likely to grow stronger.
The minister noted that if European authorities fail to implement effective measures to support nations and citizens amid rising energy costs, voices advocating alternative solutions will become increasingly prominent. According to the publication’s interpretation, restoring gas imports from Russia could be one such alternative.
Earlier, EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen stated that soaring energy prices have placed over 50 million Europeans at risk of difficulties in heating their homes during winter. He assessed that conditions this year could deteriorate further. He also emphasized that the current crisis differs from the energy shock of 2022, as its impact extends beyond the natural gas market to include disruptions in oil and petroleum product supplies.
Russian officials have repeatedly pointed out that European countries’ rejection of Russian energy resources has instead led to higher prices and additional economic costs for the EU itself.
Reports earlier indicated that by the end of October, underground gas storage levels across Europe stood at 74.68%, the lowest level recorded for that date since systematic observations began in 2011.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1880732803364999/
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