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Poland urges EU to end Russian oil imports by 2026, citing geopolitical risks

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on September 17, 2025

2 min read

· Last updated: January 21, 2026

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Poland urges EU to end Russian oil imports by 2026, citing geopolitical risks
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WARSAW (Reuters) -Poland has urged European Union members states who are still buying Russian energy to end those imports by the end of 2026 and will offer them help towards that effort, Energy

Poland Calls on EU to Halt Russian Oil Imports by 2026 Amid Risks

Poland's Call for Energy Independence

WARSAW (Reuters) -Poland has urged European Union members states who are still buying Russian energy to end those imports by the end of 2026 and will offer them help towards that effort, Energy Minister Milosz Motyka said on Wednesday.

Current Energy Imports from Russia

The Druzhba oil pipeline delivers Russian oil to Hungary and Slovakia, which continue to buy energy supplies from Russia after other EU nations cut ties following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Geopolitical Context and Recent Events

"I appeal to you to agree on a common goal of completely phasing out imports of Russian crude oil by the end of 2026," Motyka wrote to EU nations' energy ministers.

EU's Previous Plans for Oil Import Phase-Out

"Such a decision would strengthen the coherence of our actions, set a clear time horizon, and demonstrate our determination to become independent from oil supplies posing political and strategic risks."

Motyka said this was relevant in light of recent events, such as a Russian drone incursion on Poland's territory last week.

The European Commission will propose speeding phasing out of Russian fossil imports, the EU executive head Ursula von der Leyen said after a call with U.S. President Donald Trump.

The bloc had previously intended to end purchases of Russian oil and gas by January 1, 2028.

(Reporting by Marek Strzelecki; writing by Anna Wlodarczak-Semczuk)

Key Takeaways

  • Poland urges EU to stop Russian oil imports by 2026.
  • Energy Minister Milosz Motyka offers support to EU states.
  • Hungary and Slovakia still import Russian oil.
  • EU previously planned to end imports by 2028.
  • Recent Russian drone incursion highlights risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Druzhba oil pipeline?
The Druzhba oil pipeline is a major pipeline system that transports crude oil from Russia to various countries in Europe, including Hungary and Slovakia.
What is the European Commission?
The European Commission is the executive branch of the European Union responsible for proposing legislation, implementing decisions, and managing the day-to-day operations of the EU.
What is sustainability in energy?
Sustainability in energy refers to the development and use of energy sources that meet current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

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