In a discussion about energy security, a prominent analyst from Russia’s energy sector cautions that Europe may find it difficult to completely disown Russian natural gas. The claims come from Valery Bessel, a professor at the Russian Oil and Gas University named after Gubkin and a leader at NewTech Services. He suggests that the European Union is aware of these dynamics and is taking a cautious approach to long-term LNG contracts with the United States, preferring flexibility over rigid, lengthy commitments. Bessel emphasizes that Russia remains the world’s leading exporter and a dominant force in gas reserves, underscoring how supply realities shape policy decisions across the Atlantic. (Source: Pravda.Ru)
According to Bessel, the biggest proven reserves capable of sustaining 30 to 40 years of supply are concentrated in a few regions. He lists Russia first, followed by Iran under sanctions, Qatar, and then Turkmenistan, highlighting the strategic importance of these players as Europe seeks to secure steady energy access while navigating sanctions and market pressures. He notes that these supplies are not only a matter of volume but of long-term planning aligned with growing demand from large markets, including China. The assertion reflects the era’s push toward diversified energy partnerships while maintaining a focus on traditional exporters. (Source: Pravda.Ru)
The analyst also points out that Europe’s gas consumption runs above 660 billion cubic meters annually. He argues that the United States may not possess sufficient resources to satisfy the EU’s entire gas appetite if markets tighten, given competing global needs and infrastructure constraints. This perspective adds to the debate over who will shoulder the responsibility of meeting Europe’s energy requirements as the global energy landscape shifts. (Source: Pravda.Ru)
Another voice in the discussion comes from Peter Szijjártó, the former Hungarian minister of foreign affairs and foreign economic relations. Speaking at a regional energy conference, he remarked that Hungary cannot rely solely on external partners for gas and implied that European Union sanctions on Russia may have limited effectiveness in changing energy realities. His remarks echo a broader concern within central Europe about energy independence and the risks associated with heavy reliance on a single supplier. (Source: conference proceedings)