On 7 February, EU High Representative Josep Borrell met with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in the framework of the ninth EU-U.S. Energy Council.
In addition to energy security and promoting energy diversification, the Council discussed the urgency of action to address the gas supply situation in Europe and to ensure gas supply to Ukraine.
As to the current crisis around Ukraine, Borrell and Blinken reiterated the determination of the EU and the United States to give a united response to Russia’s threats. “Energy issues are central to this crisis because Russia does not hesitate to use its significant energy supplies to Europe as a leverage for geopolitical gain,” said Borrell at a press conference after the meeting.
Both sides repeated that they will continue their multi-layered diplomatic engagement on various levels and in different formats – as bilateral contacts, the Normandy talks, the OSCE and NATO.
“But, at the same time, we remain firm in our resolve that further aggression against Ukraine would have – as the Secretary of State said – massive consequences. We hope for the best, but we prepare for the worst,” added Borrell.