Era of Moscow calls will end once EU breaks free from Russia's energy dictate – Nauseda

VILNIUS – EU member states need to secure their energy independence from Russia, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda says, also saying that Lithuania needs to step up its power synchronization project and focus on renewables.

Coordinated with transatlantic allies, the existing sanctions are increasingly straining Russia’s energy exports crucial for the Kremlin’s ability to finance the war, but the long-term strategic goal is to free the EU and NATO countries from energy dependence on Russia, Nauseda said on Thursday, delivering his State of the Nation Address in the Seimas of Lithuania.

"Once the European countries break free from Russia’s energy grip, the groundwork will be laid for the EU’s full political self-reliance. Humble telephone calls to Moscow will finally end. It is worth the effort!" the Lithuanian president said.

In his words, the early launch of the Gas Interconnection Poland-Lithuania is also an important achievement. It allows Lithuania, Poland and other countries in the region to receive natural gas supplies using each other’s terminals and storage capacities.

However, Nauseda called for stepping up the synchronization with continental Europe and refocus on renewable energy.