Poland Urges EU to Phase Out Russian Oil by 2026 Citing Geopolitical Risks

Poland’s Energy Minister, Miłosz Motyka, on Wednesday urged European Union member states that are still purchasing Russian energy to fully stop importing Russian oil by the end of 2026, offering assistance to help them achieve this goal.

The Druzhba oil pipeline continues to supply Russian crude to Hungary and Slovakia, which, despite many other EU nations severing ties after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, have continued to buy energy from Russia.

In a letter addressed to the energy ministers of EU countries, Motyka stated, “I call on you to agree on a shared goal of completely ending Russian crude oil imports by the end of 2026.”

“Such a decision will strengthen the consistency of our actions, set a clear timeline, and demonstrate our determination to free ourselves from oil supplies that pose political and strategic risks.”

Motyka noted that the appeal is especially relevant in light of recent developments, including last week’s Russian drone incursion into Polish territory.

Following discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that the EU would propose a phased reduction of Russian fossil fuel imports.

Previously, the European Commission had aimed to end purchases of Russian oil and gas by January 1, 2028.