Russian energy giant Gazprom recorded a notable increase in gas exports to Europe via the TurkStream pipeline, rising by 22% in March compared to the same month last year, with an average daily supply of 55 million cubic meters.
This increase in supply occurs at a time when the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for oil and gas transport, is effectively closed to most vessels due to escalating tensions in the region, leading to a significant energy supply shortage.
Details of the Event
Data from the European Network of Transmission System Operators for Gas indicated that total Russian gas supplies to Europe through the TurkStream pipeline reached 1.7 billion cubic meters in March, compared to 1.4 billion cubic meters in the same month of 2025. Supplies have remained stable since February.
In the first three months of this year, Russian gas exports via pipelines increased by 11% year-on-year, reaching approximately 5 billion cubic meters. In contrast, Russian gas exports to Europe fell by 44% last year, totaling 18 billion cubic meters, the lowest level since the mid-1970s.
Background & Context
Historically, Russia supplied about 40% of the European Union's gas needs, whether through pipelines or liquefied natural gas (LNG) transport. However, this percentage has significantly dropped to 13% in 2025, amid political and economic tensions affecting relations between the two sides.
The EU countries aim to completely end their reliance on Russian gas by 2027, but there is opposition from some nations, such as Hungary, which heavily depend on Russian gas. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov described the European leaders' policy to ban Russian gas imports as "akin to shooting themselves in the foot," highlighting the harm it would cause their populations.
Impact & Consequences
In light of these circumstances, EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen warned that Europe faces a "very serious situation," noting the lack of a clear end to the current crisis in energy markets. He emphasized that even if peace is achieved, normalcy will not return in the near future.
Jørgensen also urged member states to take measures to reduce oil consumption, particularly diesel and aviation fuel, by following recommendations from the International Energy Agency, such as working from home and reducing speed limits on roads.
Regional Significance
These developments directly impact energy markets in the Arab region, where Arab countries are among the largest producers of oil and gas in the world. With rising energy prices, some Arab nations may benefit from increased demand for their resources.
However, ongoing tensions in the region could lead to price volatility, necessitating that Arab countries adopt effective strategies to adapt to these changes.