Discussion of the EU’s energy security situation in the wake of developments in the Middle East at the meeting of the Energy Union Task Force Security confirmed that there is no immediate risk to the EU’s security of oil and gas supply. Member state senior officials and the Commission reaffirmed the findings of the Oil and Gas Co-ordination Groups, which met earlier this week with industry representatives, and underlined the importance of preparing for a long-term scenario.
Regarding oil markets, the Task Force confirmed that crude oil supplies to EU refineries remain stable, with no need for additional stock releases at present. Nevertheless, prolonged disruptions in Middle East oil production and tanker traffic could pose longer-term risks. Jet fuel remains the primary concern, given that EU refineries cover around 70% of the EU’s consumption, with the remainder reliant on imports.
Regarding the gas market, with winter preparations already underway, the Task Force welcomed Commissioner Dan Jørgensen’s letter to EU countries encouraging the use of flexibilities in legislation and inviting them to consider reducing the storage target to 80%. Participants also discussed the benefits of a longer gas storage injection season to avoid last-minute congestion and price spikes.
Finally, the Task Force welcomed and called for an acceleration of ongoing work to provide clear Commission recommendations on the implementation of EU Methane Regulation, with a focus on security of supply and legal certainty, notably with respect to penalties and compliance solutions, as agreed by Energy Ministers in December 2025.
While the two-week ceasefire announcement has brought stability to energy prices, the overall situation remains volatile and uncertain. In this context, the Task Force highlighted the critical need for enhanced information sharing and co-ordination, to ensure a unified EU-level response, and further meetings in the Oil and Gas Co-ordination Group as well as the Task Force.
Related links
