EU summit on energy crisis: "We do not intend to be blackmailed by Putin"

The EU imports Russian oil and gas for one billion euros a day.

Recently, Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened to shut down gas supplies to the EU if payments are not made in Russian currency.

Something that according to the European Commission's Vice-President Frans Timmermans is unthinkable.

- Russia gets paid according to the contract, which says euro or dollar, not rubles.

We do not intend to be blackmailed by Putin, says Timmermans in SVT Agenda.

Boost for green energy transition

At EU level, the energy issue has been a high priority - Europe must become self-sufficient.

- We are far too dependent on Russian oil and gas, and must reduce it quickly, says Timmermans.

How does this crisis affect the transition to renewable energy in the EU?

- If we are to become self-sufficient, we must use renewable energy sources.

We must create our own energy, nuclear power in all its glory, but it is cheaper and faster with renewable sources such as solar energy, wind power, biogas or geothermal energy.

In this way, the war means a boost for the EU's green supply and energy transition, says Timmermans.

"Shower shorter"

Europe does not have its own oil and the stock of gas is small.

Within the EU, various solutions are now being investigated, including the import of natural gas from the USA.

If Russia decides to turn off the gas, the EU is ready, but we will need to save, Timmermans explains.

- Each of us must think about consuming as little energy as possible.

Turn down the thermostat, put on a sweater, shower for a shorter time.

Tax cuts

The high fuel prices have meant that many countries, including Sweden, are now lowering taxes on fossil fuels.

In Sweden, the opposition proposes further reductions, which, if approved, would be below the EU minimum level.

This would mean that Sweden must negotiate the issue in the EU.

- No other member state has asked us to change the energy directive for that reason.

There are so many tax rates for energy and so many national measures to take without consulting the EU, if you do not want to, says Timmermans.