And this without providing a single additional drop of energy. The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, made these data public in Strasbourg.
Members of the European Parliament, the Council and the European Commission discussed there effects of the crisis in the Middle East. “In just 60 days of conflict, our fossil fuel import bill has increased by over €27 billion, without a single additional molecule of energy,” von der Leyen said.
The President of the Commission has an urgent appeal to Europe.
Europe must become independent from fossil fuels from abroad. Instead, more local, affordable and clean energy is needed. Von der Leyen cited Sweden as an example. Where almost all electricity comes from renewables and nuclear power, prices have risen much less.
Member States should decide for themselves what steps they will take. Last week, the European Commission presented them with proposals such as energy vouchers for low-income families, financial support for energy-saving products and campaigns promoting energy efficiency.
Conclusions from the crisis in Ukraine
Aid should go directly to the most affected families and industries and not lead to greater consumption of gas and oil, as the president emphasized. Context: in the energy crisis after the start of Russian aggression against Ukraine only a quarter of emergency aid went to citizens and businesses in need. More than EUR 350 billion (PLN 1.4 trillion) – spread over a much longer period – was spent on programs that were not targeted at specific goals. This shouldn't happen again.
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The Commission also announced that Member States will receive a temporary more freedom in providing financial support to enterprises. A decision on this matter is expected to be made before the end of the month.
Countries should also better coordinate their actions in filling national gas storage facilities, as well as fuel reserves, especially kerosene and diesel. In addition, the European Union wants to accelerate the transition to electricity in transport, industry and heating.
War with Iran
The United States' conflict with Iran continues. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Fox News what he believes is standing in the way of a peace agreement between the US and Iran. — One of the obstacles is that our negotiators do not negotiate only with the Iranians. These Iranians need to negotiate with other Iranians to determine what they can agree to, what they can offer, what they are willing to do and even who they are willing to meet with, he said.
“Iran can't pull itself together. They have no idea how to sign an agreement on their nuclear program. They better come to their senses quickly,” commented Donald Trump on Truth Social. He attached a graphic to the entry in which he stands in a suit and dark glasses, holding a rifle. Explosions can be seen in the background. “No more being a nice guy” – reads the caption.
On Monday, Axios reported that Iran presented the United States with a new offer that could lead to an end to the war and the opening of the Strait of Hormuz, which plays an important role in global trade.
However, Tehran's proposal assumes that nuclear negotiations would start only later, which the White House does not entirely like, according to reports.
I’m Ashley Davis as an editor, I’m committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accuracy in every piece we publish. My work is driven by curiosity, a passion for truth, and a belief that journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse. I strive to tell stories that not only inform but also inspire action and conversation.
