As reported by the online media Suspilne.
Serbia has the ability to import Russian gas for its own needs, as it is not a member of the European Union (EU). This was stated on June 19 by European Commission spokesperson Anna-Kaisa Itkonen in response to journalists’ questions about the new European regulation concerning gas supply transparency.
“The regulation does not apply to third countries, including Serbia. Therefore, Serbia can import Russian gas for its own consumption.”
At the same time, she noted that the situation changes if gas passing through Serbia is delivered to EU member states, such as Hungary. In this case, the customs authorities of those countries must verify the origin of the gas in accordance with European legislation.
“We cannot determine the origin of gas molecule by molecule. This is a matter of customs control and declaration, which importers must ensure. We do not regulate pipelines or infrastructure – only the gas and oil themselves.”
Itkonen also emphasized that the European Commission does not have access to the details of commercial contracts between companies, and therefore cannot comment on specific supply cases.
On June 17, the European Commission presented a plan for the gradual phase-out of Russian oil and gas, including LNG, by the end of 2027. Hungary and Slovakia have expressed their intention to block EU sanctions against Russia if the European Union imposes restrictions on Russian energy resources.
EU member states must submit their diversification plans, which will include clear measures and stages for the gradual phase-out of imports of Russian gas and oil.
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