Despite Sanctions, EU Boosts Russian Fuel Imports: What’s Being Bought in May.

EU-Russia Energy Ties in 2026

According to Espreso.tv: In May 2026, the European Union remained the fourth-largest buyer of Russian fossil fuels, accounting for roughly 12% (€2.3 billion) of Russia’s export revenue. Even with restrictions in place, imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and petroleum products from Russia continued to climb. The top European purchasers of Russian oil and gas were:

• Hungary, which imported €674 million worth;
• Slovakia, with €497 million;
• Spain, which ranked as the third-largest buyer of Russian fuel, focusing exclusively on LNG imports.

France imported €253 million worth of Russian LNG, a 29% drop compared to April. Belgium also reduced its purchases, buying €252 million in Russian LNG—a 31% decline. Notably, as of January 21, 2026, the European Union imposed an embargo on imports of petroleum products made from Russian crude oil. Despite this, ten shipments of such products were unloaded at EU ports in May. Cyprus was the top recipient, receiving three of those shipments.

Russian Oil Exports and EU Energy Policy

Starting April 23, 2026, after the Druzhba pipeline resumed operations, pipeline exports of Russian crude oil increased by 22%. This data shows that, despite enacted bans and restrictions, Russian fossil fuels remain a key component of the energy policy for several EU member states.

This situation highlights the complexity of energy relations between the European Union and Russia, where economic interests often clash with political decisions.

While EU countries strive to reduce their reliance on Russian energy resources, market realities and energy needs compel them to continue importing, raising questions about the effectiveness of sanctions. Future actions by EU nations in the energy sector could significantly impact their security strategy and economic stability amid global shifts in the energy market.