Europe Could Be 'Left In The Cold' As IEA Warns Of Cut Off From Russian Gas

Europe Could Be 'left In The Cold' As IEA Warns Of Complete Cut Off From Russian Gas

Dipaneeta Das

As the West continues to mount sanctions against Russia, the International Energy Agency (IEA) on Wednesday warned that Europe must brace for a freezing winter.

As the West continues to mount sanctions against Russia, the International Energy Agency (IEA) on Wednesday warned that Europe must prepare for a freezing winter. Speaking to the Financial Times (FT), IEA chief Faith Birol said that the European countries must brace for a cold winter as Russia has decided to cut down gas supplies in view of gaining upper hand in its war against Ukraine. "Europe should be ready in case Russian gas is completely cut off," Birol told FT.

"The nearer we are coming to winter, the more we understand Russia's intentions," he emphasised.

"I believe cuts are geared towards avoiding Europe filling storage, and increasing Russia's leverage in the winter months," he predicted.

Birol went on to urge European governments to take immediate measures in order to reduce the impact of a sudden shutdown, which is crucial given the fact that Europe primarily depends on Russian gas supplies. Despite plans to phase out and undertake more emission-reducing and economic measures, 27 nations of the European Union depend on about 40% of Russian gas, according to Marshal Center, with the dependence showing an increasing trend. This kind of profound Russian domination has helped the Kremlin develop an incredible advantage in its dealings with European neighbours.