Brussels: The European Union has reaffirmed its pledge to completely end its dependence on Russian oil and gas by January 1, 2028, even as the United States continues to press for an accelerated timeline. The confirmation came after high-level talks in Brussels on Thursday between EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen and U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright.
Commissioner Jorgensen described the 2028 exit plan as “very, very ambitious,” stressing that the EU’s responsibility is to combine political determination with economic realism. He explained that while the EU shares Washington’s urgency in dismantling Moscow’s energy influence, any abrupt shift could destabilize European energy markets, drive up consumer costs, and threaten supply security.
The commissioner emphasized that the EU’s timeline is not a signal of weakness but a careful balancing act. “Our strategy is both firm and feasible,” he noted, highlighting that new contracts for Russian energy will be banned from next year to ensure the phase-out remains irreversible.
The United States, which has emerged as a major exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Europe since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, has urged the EU to shorten its timetable. Washington argues that moving faster would not only weaken Moscow’s revenues but also consolidate the transatlantic energy partnership.
Secretary Wright expressed U.S. readiness to increase LNG shipments to Europe, ensuring that countries most reliant on Russian supplies particularly in Eastern and Central Europe can secure alternatives without disruption. However, he also acknowledged that the EU must weigh the risks of energy insecurity against geopolitical urgency.
The debate over timing has been intensified by recent remarks from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who suggested accelerating the Russian energy phase-out as part of broader sanctions. Yet, the final decision lies with EU member states, many of which remain wary of pushing households and industries into an energy price shock.
Some governments argue that a rapid transition risks hurting domestic economies already under strain, while others see a faster exit as a moral and strategic necessity to end Europe’s reliance on Russian fossil fuels once and for all.
By sticking to its 2028 deadline, the EU is signaling confidence in its ability to transform its energy landscape within the next three years. This transformation will require massive investments in renewables, storage technology, interconnectors, and efficiency measures, alongside expanded LNG imports from allies.
Analysts warn that the plan, while achievable, will test the political will of EU leaders, particularly during cold winters when public pressure over high energy bills resurfaces. The phase-out also raises questions about Europe’s long-term energy mix, the pace of green transition, and its ability to reconcile climate goals with security concerns.
The decision is also symbolic of Europe’s determination to sever ties with Russian energy after decades of dependence. By locking in a 2028 deadline, Brussels is presenting a united front while keeping flexibility to adjust the pace of its clean energy transition.
For Washington, the talks reaffirmed the centrality of U.S.-EU energy cooperation in an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape. Secretary Wright concluded that while the U.S. would prefer a faster exit, America respects Europe’s path and will continue to act as a “reliable energy partner.”
As the 2028 deadline draws nearer, the EU faces the dual challenge of delivering on its promises while shielding its citizens from economic shocks. The success of this strategy will define not only Europe’s energy independence but also its credibility on climate commitments and geopolitical resilience.