Trump Urges Europe to Resume Russian Gas Imports, Says It Could Help End Ukraine War
U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly urging European countries to reconsider their restrictions on Russian natural gas imports, arguing that allowing Moscow to sell gas to Europe again could help bring Russian President Vladimir Putin to the negotiating table.
Under the proposed approach, Russia would regain access to a lucrative energy market, while European countries could potentially benefit from lower energy prices.
Trump has argued that the war in Ukraine is contributing to economic pressures and reducing the purchasing power of European households. His administration’s reported strategy suggests that restoring Russian gas supplies could help ease inflation, lower energy costs, and support economic recovery.
The proposal reflects Trump’s broader approach of using economic incentives and energy trade as leverage to encourage negotiations with Moscow.
However, the idea could prove controversial across Europe, where many governments have sought to reduce their dependence on Russian energy since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Critics may also question whether renewed gas revenues would encourage Putin to pursue peace or instead strengthen Russia’s ability to sustain its military campaign.
Trump’s reported strategy ultimately rests on a major gamble: that economic benefits for Europe and renewed energy revenues for Russia could create stronger incentives for a negotiated settlement.
Could cheaper Russian gas help bring peace to Ukraine, or would it give Moscow greater financial leverage over Europe?