Ukraine crisis will muddy eastern EU energy transition

Significance

Higher energy prices and, as war rages in Ukraine, the politicisation of sources of supply are highlighting weaknesses, and some strengths, in the energy systems of the eleven eastern EU member states (EU-11). They have supported the EU stance on the war in Ukraine and sanctions against Russia, some with greater enthusiasm than others.

Impacts

• Such economic sectors as agriculture may also emerge as security issues.
• States will be distracted by the need to cushion the impact of economic shocks.
• Further escalation of trade tensions with Russia are possible.