Europe Seeks Energy Lifeline in Africa Amid Strained Ties with Russia and US

The European Union is turning to Africa for its energy needs as strained relations with Russia and uncertainty in its partnership with the US push it towards securing alternative supplies. Europe's reliance on Russian gas, which accounted for about 45% of EU imports in 2021, has decreased significantly since the Ukraine war.

By the end of 2025, Russia's share of EU gas imports had fallen to around 13%, and pipeline gas dependence dropped from more than 40% to approximately 6%. The bloc aims to fully phase out Russian gas imports by 2027. However, this shift has increased Europe's reliance on US liquefied natural gas (LNG), which became a key replacement source after Russian pipeline deliveries declined.

But the energy partnership with the US is facing pressure from trade disputes and geopolitical tensions, prompting European governments to diversify their efforts beyond Russia and the US. Africa's oil, gas, and uranium reserves have gained importance in Europe's energy strategy, with North Africa becoming a key part of the continent's diversification efforts due to its geographical proximity and existing pipeline infrastructure.