Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

EU Energy Imports from Russia Soar Amid Sanctions Debate

10/13/2025

24 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

In 2025, seven EU member states increased imports of Russian energy despite efforts to reduce reliance on Moscow, importing over €11 billion in the first eight months, with Hungary and Slovakia opposing sanctions.
France's imports rose 40% to €2.2 billion.
The Netherlands' imports rose 72% to €498 million.
Analysts warn that these purchases remain a major Kremlin revenue source.
The U.S. President Donald Trump labeled the trend "inexcusable."

History

Historical Context

Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 led the European Union to impose sanctions aimed at reducing energy dependence on Moscow. Despite these efforts, by 2025, seven EU states imported over €11 billion in Russian energy, with France's imports rising 40% to €2.2 billion. This ongoing reliance raises concerns about the EU's energy security and geopolitical stability amid the backdrop of the Ukraine conflict.

1 of 2

Story summary

In 2025, seven EU member states increased imports of Russian energy despite efforts to reduce reliance on Moscow, importing over €11 billion in the first eight months, with Hungary and Slovakia opposing sanctions.
France's imports rose 40% to €2.2 billion.
The Netherlands' imports rose 72% to €498 million.
Analysts warn that these purchases remain a major Kremlin revenue source.
The U.S. President Donald Trump labeled the trend "inexcusable."

1 / 2